Heather Nicole Yearwood

Heather was born on October 10, 1994, to Tammy Mudd Yearwood in Morganton, North Carolina.

Growing up, Heather carried both a fearless heart and a tender innocence—skiing straight down the steepest slopes to spending hours making mud pies in rusted pots and pans in the backyard. More than anything, she enjoyed volunteering at the local horse stables, cleaning stalls and riding (even after getting bucked off by a stubborn mare, she landed both feet on the ground, un-phased, and jumped right back on!). Her love for animals was unwavering—from the horse-stable mural in her bedroom to the countless pets that always found a home in the family house. In middle school, as part of her homeschooling, she volunteered at a local veterinary clinic, an experience that solidified her dream of becoming a veterinary technician. After graduating Hibriten High School, Heather attended Western Carolina University. That same curiosity and fearless spirit that defined Heather’s childhood never faded. As she grew older, her love for animals blossomed into a broader love for the world itself and eventually moved her across the country. Still, wherever she went, Heather remained devoted to working with animals.

To know Heather was to know that she was always laughing and making jokes, craving Dutch Bros coffee, cooking or eating, planning her next tattoo, and cuddled up with her pup.

Though Heather’s time with us was far too short, she met the world with courage, humor, and an open heart—whether caring for animals, exploring new places, or simply sharing a laugh. Her joy, kindness, and fearless spirit leave an imprint that will never fade. Heather will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A service to honor Heather will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 5:30 pm at Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home with Rev. Sam Craven officiating.

The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service, from 4:15 pm until 5:15 pm at Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home.

Her family asks that all memorial donations be made to Foothills Canine Rescue where Heather volunteered at:

P.O. Box 2746 Lenoir, NC 28645.

Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home is honored to serve the Yearwood family.