James Lloveras Heintz Sr.

The world lost a gentle giant with a big smile and even bigger heart this Father's Day with the passing of Dr. James Lloveras Heintz Sr., age 73. Born in New Orleans, Jim was the son of the late Muriel Irma Lloveras Heintz and Clarence Glen Heintz, Jr. He is survived by his childhood sweetheart and bride of 52 years, Judy Graffagnini Heintz; his four children, Kirsten Marie Heintz (Amy), Dr. James “Jay” Lloveras Heintz, Jr. (Laura), Kerri Irma Heintz Simons (Justin), and Dr. Jonathan Michael Heintz, Sr. (Jeanne) as well as his grandchildren, Emma Leigh (18), Rebekah Ann (18), Jonathan "Jonny" Michael Jr. (12), Hallie Ryan (10), and Peter Everette (6). He is also survived by his proud and loving siblings, C. Glen Heintz III (Ann), Terry Heintz Caldwell (Debbie), Linda Heintz Shear, Carol Ann Heintz, and his brother-in-law, Bill Graffagnini...and many cousins, nieces and nephews, friends, and grandpets. Jimmy was preceded in death by his in-laws William A. Graffagnini, Burdetta O'Dowd Graffagnini, his sister-in-law Lila Voss Graffagnini, and brothers-in-law Loyd Caldwell and Chip Shear. Whether you knew him as Husband (Poosie), Dad, Grampy, PT, Dr. Dog, or Brother, Jimmy was a man of many passions, but his family came first. He especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, dancing with his bride, card games with family and friends, and traveling. A true New Orleanian, Jimmy loved the culture, music, and cuisine (but not Mardi Gras…). Jimmy was the scoutmaster for troop 491 and a 4th degree in the Knights of Columbus. He was the President of the Tuskegee School of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association and received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the school. In addition, he was a member of the TVMMA Executive Council, serving on the nominating committee and as the Preceptorship Coordinator. He also received the Presidential Associate Award from Tuskegee University for his continued support of the school. Jimmy knew at the age of 10 that he wanted to be a veterinarian and had an unlimited passion for his clients, patients, colleagues, students, and employees. Jim was a partner for 32 years at Lakeview Veterinary Hospital. He then spent 11 years as an adjunct professor at Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine. Finally, Jim spent the last few years as a part-time associate veterinarian at his son, Jonathan's, practice, Dutchtown Animal Hospital. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Jim's name to wishtofish.org. The family is beyond grateful to the medical professionals that have been Jimmy's living angels these last 30+ years. The immediate family had a private gathering and will look for ways in the near future to celebrate Jim's life with loved ones throughout the country. It was Jim's desire to have a celebration of his life.