John Wayne Heatherly, known affectionately as Johnny by his friends, passed away on January 30, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on April 3, 1946, he was a beloved and adventurous individual, known for his devotion, and generosity. Johnny was a gentle, hard-working, and honest man, whose humorous, kind-hearted, patient, and wise nature left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Johnny was a proud Army veteran. He enjoyed piddling in the workshop and was a huge fan of Alabama football. His love for community was evident as he frequently visited flea markets and cherished mornings spent with friends at Jack's.
He was a devoted husband to his wife, Sieglinde Heatherly, and a loving father to his daughters, LeAnna Wood (Gary) and Carrie Leslie (Sylvester), and sons, Alexander Heatherly (Karen) and Christopher Heatherly (Tessa). Johnny's family extended to his sister, Judy Clack, and brother, Ronald Heatherly. He was predeceased by his sister, Janath McCluskey, and brother, Gerald Heatherly.
Johnny was also a cherished grandfather to Nicole Brown (Roy), Makenna Atkins (Kaitlyn), Neriah Leslie, Auston Leslie, Jake Wood, Grove Carlock, and Jonah Heatherly, and a great-grandfather to Lettie Atkins. He was blessed with bonus grandchildren Caroline Cleghorn, Rosalyn Cleghorn, and Reece Cleghorn. His influence and love extended to a host of nieces and nephews, with special thanks to Greg McCluskey (Karen) and Bobby Stercho for their support.
A visitation will be held on February 4, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Moss-Service Funeral Home, located at 1901 2nd Ave North West, Cullman, AL 35055. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life Funeral Service will take place at 2:00 pm in the Moss Service Funeral Home Chapel. A graveside committal service will be conducted at Valley Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, 6979 Co Rd 437, Cullman, AL 35057.
Pallbearers for the services will be Greg McCluskey, Sylvester Leslie, Auston Leslie, Roy Brown, Jake Wood, and Bobby Stercho.
Johnny's legacy is one of laughter and love, as he was known for his sense of humor, his distinctive laugh, and his habit of giving everyone nicknames. His memory will continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
To leave condolences for the Heatherly family visit mossservicefh.com. Moss Service Funeral Home directing
