Eleanor Anne Marie Ratz-Heyliger

Eleanor Anne Marie Ratz-Heyliger

October 14th, 2025 ~ January 19th, 2026

Eleanor Anne Marie Ratz-Heyliger was born on October 14, 2025, in the quiet, sacred early morning hours at home in Punta Gorda, Florida. She passed from this world too soon on January 19, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida, held lovingly in her mother’s arms and immediately welcomed into the arms of Jesus.

Eleanor was a miracle long before her first breath. She was prayed for through years of infertility, tears, waiting, and unwavering faith. She was known by God before she was known by the world, and when she arrived, she arrived perfectly - right on time, exactly as heaven had intended.

She was born into her daddy’s arms, surrounded by peace, prayer, and love. Her entrance into the world was gentle and holy, a moment forever etched into the hearts of her parents. From the very beginning, Eleanor lived wrapped in devotion, safety, and awe.

Eleanor was nourished by her mother’s body, sustained through breastfeeding that was both a labor of love and an act of devotion. Her mommy's body carried her, fed her, comforted her, and sustained her - giving of itself again and again so Eleanor could grow, rest, and feel secure. Breastfeeding was not just nourishment; it was connection, closeness, and quiet moments where time seemed to stand still.

Eleanor embodied sweetness and depth far beyond her days. She loved to share music, especially with her big sister Charlotte. Eleanor would listen intently, sometimes stomping her little feet as if joining in her own quiet praise. Those tiny foot stomps became a language of joy, a rhythm her family will never forget.

She had the most serious little expressions, studying the world with wisdom in her eyes, as if she already understood more than she could say. Her face could be calm and thoughtful one moment, then soften instantly when she heard her daddy’s voice or felt her mommy’s touch.

Eleanor loved being close. She loved being held. Finding peace and comfort in arms that were never tired of holding her. She loved being strolled through life in her “chariot,” and arm exhausting exercise regiments with her Daddy. She knew warmth. She knew love without condition or fear.

And when her earthly body grew tired, Eleanor was once again held exactly where she belonged - in her mommy’s arms. She never knew this world without being protected, never knew pain without love surrounding her, and never left without being cherished beyond measure.

On January 19 - one year to the very day she was created - Eleanor completed her earthly mission and went home. Her life, though brief, was complete. Scripture tells us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18), and her family clings to the promise that Eleanor is now whole, healed, and rejoicing in heaven.

She is now singing louder than she ever could here, dancing without limits, and resting in eternal peace. Her parents trust the truth of God’s word - that children like Eleanor are never lost, only gone ahead.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her grandparents Jennie Marie and Bentley Heyliger; her great-grandparents Dorothy Ratz and Edward Ratz; her great aunt Theresa Ratz and Marie King; her great uncle Ward Ratz; her aunt Savannah Ratz; her cousin Aleisa Ratz; and many other beloved family members who now rejoice at her arrival.

She is survived by her devoted parents, Alyssa and Bentley Heyliger Jr.; her siblings Charlotte Ratz-Heyliger, Bentley Heyliger III, Tyron Heyliger, and Anitra Knowles; her grandparents Bill and Lynn Ratz; her aunts Mary Ratz and Netta Clark; her uncles Joshua Ratz and Ernest Clark; and countless cousins, aunts, uncles, and loved ones who will carry Eleanor’s light forever.

Though Eleanor’s days were few, her impact is eternal. She changed hearts, deepened faith, and showed her family what pure love looks like. She will always be their baby, their miracle, their answered prayer, and their proof that even the smallest life can leave the biggest imprint.

We Love You Baby.

Service Details:

Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park

12777 State Road 82, Fort Myers, FL 33913

Sunday, February 1, 2026

Viewing: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Funeral Service: Begins at 1:00 PM

A Celebration of Life will follow immediately after at the home of Alyssa and Bentley Heyliger

348 Martineau Cir., Lehigh Acres, FL 33974

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family’s GoFundMe. Flowers may also be sent to the funeral home or to the family’s home.