William "Billy" Edward Heath

William “Billy” Edward Heath, 83, of Hickory, NC passed away unexpectedly Saturday, November 4, 2017 and went home to be with his Lord. William was born on September 3, 1934 in Beaufort County, NC, he was the son of the late Furnie Amos Heath and Alice Smith. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Mary Ellen Heath. He was a devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather and great grandfather where he is survived by his son, Dale Heath and wife Terri; grandchildren, Chris and Beth Heath; great grandchildren, Dara Heath, Zoey Kolb, Cole Heath, Doug Kolb III; brother, James Smith; sister, Ruth Davis. Billy was looking forward to the arrival of his first great-great grandchild. Billy was a graduate of the NC School for the Deaf; he was very active in the deaf community and was a member of First Baptist Church of the Deaf. He was also an avid sports lover and retired from Corning Cable Systems. Billy was known for his vibrant personality, smile and laugh. A Memorial Service will be held at Catawba Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremations Friday, November 10, 2017 at 2pm with Pastor Jeff Brewster officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 – 1:45pm at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the North Carolina School for the Deaf Museum at 517 W Fleming Dr. Morganton, NC 28655. Condolences may be left at www.catawbamemorialpark.com. The Heath Family is under the care of Catawba Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremations.