Clayton "Cooter" Heath

Clayton “Cooter” Heath, age 86 of Riegelwood NC, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on July 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness. He was known for his kind spirit, fun-loving nature, and ability to fix anything. He was a man full of heart, generosity, and adventure, truly lived life to the fullest, and his generous spirit touched all those around him. He found joy in the simple pleasures of water skiing, boating, fishing, and relaxing by the beach. His inventive side led to the creation of the “Cooterboard” , for which he proudly held a patent. Cooter was also a talented cook who loved sharing good meals with family and friends. He loved to farm and garden. Whether he was telling a story, cracking a joke, or dancing at a party, Cooter was the one who lit up every room and was the life of the party through and through.

He dedicated 40 years of hard work to International Paper, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues who knew him not only as a dedicated worker but also as a loyal friend with a big heart. While at International Paper, he also served as an EMT.

Cooter is survived by the love of his life and best friend for the past 25 years, Deborah Tyner, who remained by his side through every season. He also leaves behind her children, Dr. Jennifer Wynn and husband Mark and Danielle Blake and husband Jordan who Cooter loved as his own children. Cooter’s legacy continues through his beloved sons: Lawrence Heath and wife Tammy, Army Colonel Robert Heath and wife Shirley, and Patrick Tinney and wife Trish.

He loved his grandchildren, Lauren Hruby and husband Carter, Clay Heath and wife Lauren, Nicholas Heath, Dr. Savanna Lee and husband Harrison, Alexis Heath, Haley Anne Tinney, Tessa Tinney, Ty Tinney, Lauren Wynn, and Natalee Wynn. He had two great-grandchildren, Kensington Hruby and Oliver Heath. He is also survived by his sister Myrtle Bigford, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom will carry his memory in their hearts.

Cooter was preceded in death by his beloved wife and Patrick’s mother, Anne Heath and Lawrence and Robert’s mother, Roberta Porter; his parents, Carey and Lenna Heath; his brothers, Jimmie Heath, Elvin Ray Heath, and Forrest Heath; and his sisters, Velma “Pat” Hargrove, Vera Russ, Mattie Settlemeyer, and Mable Peterson.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Madeline Denise Moore and Pat Boyd, who cared for Cooter with unwavering compassion, love, and support during the last chapter of his journey. Additionally, the family extends deep gratitude to Lakeisha Greenfield, ANP, his neurologist, whose kindness, expertise, and moral support brought great comfort during his final chapter.

Cooter’s life was marked by love, generosity, laughter, loyalty, and the ability to bring joy wherever he went. He will be deeply missed. His memory will live on in every shared meal, sunny day on the water, and family stories told around the table. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The family would like to recognize the pallbearers for their special place they had in Cooter’s life: Charlie Brown, Paul Fowler, Kevin Fowler, Jeff Wilder, David Settlemeyer, and Chris Smith.

A visitation for Clayton will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Coble Funeral and Cremation Service at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 1155 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC 28412.

A Celebration of Life Service will start at 12:00 PM in the Coble Chapel. Interment will follow at Oleander Memorial Gardens, 306 Bradley Dr, Wilmington, NC 28409.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer's Foundation of America: https://alzfdn.org/donate/ or a charity of your choice.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.coblegreenlawm.com