Heather Nicole Wilhite

Heather was born on January 16, 1979. She lived her 41 years battling Rett Syndrome, never once complaining or feeling sorry for her circumstances. She met life head on with dignity, courage and tremendous resilience. She spoke volumes without ever saying a word with her sparkling eyes and beautiful smile that could light up a whole room. Heather resided at Middle TN Homes in Hermitage TN where she gained another family of peers and loving caregivers. The past several years provided increased health challenges for Heather which she met with quiet fierceness and will that amazed everyone. Her family is eternally grateful for everyone who helped care for Heather by brightening and broadening her life over the years.

She leaves behind her father, Jack Wilhite of Lewisburg, KY; her cousin and conservator Kevin Townsend of Franklin, TN; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother Debra Cerrato, brother Davey Ray Wilhite, and grandparents William and Betty Harveston and Bonnie Wilhite all of Blount Co. TN. There will be a receiving of family and friends from 1 - 2 pm with a brief memorial service at 2 at Hermitage Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Heather's memory to Rett Syndrome research at Rettsyndrome.org.