John Leighton "JL" Heath
August 27, 1940 ~ February 19, 2022
Born in:
Brevard, NC
Resided in:
Asheville, Buncombe
John Leighton “JL” Heath, or “Pa” as he was most importantly known to his 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, went peacefully to be with the Lord at his home in Asheville on Saturday, February 19, 2022 after a long battle with cancer. His 81 years on earth were filled with love, faith, and steadfast dedication to his family.
He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years Geneva, his children Denise Wilson (Rick), John L. Heath Jr. (Tammy), step-children Robert Windsor (Lee Kube), and Brooke Windsor Buckner, grandchildren Windsor Western (Alex), Jessica Wilson, Dr. Kelsey Hanger (Ian Flanegan), Heath Wilson (Alexis), Abigail Heath, Wyatt Windsor, Eli Windsor, CarlyMae Buckner and Lily Buckner and great-grandchildren Aubree Fisher, Eleanor Western and Genevieve Western, his sister Anne Wilson (Hubert) and his sister-in-law Mary Heath.
He is joyfully joining in heaven his parents, John Andrew Heath and Ruby Louise Annie Heath, his brother Charles Heath and his great-granddaughter Adelaide Amelia Western.
JL was an employee of the US Postal Service for 35 years where he was a two time award winner of the Million Mile Club for outstanding performance in driving 1,000,000 miles without an accident from the National Safety Council.
JL joined Merrimon Avenue Baptist Church in 1984 and served in many areas including as Deacon, Elder, Sunday School Teacher, and 20 years in the church kitchen.
The family would like to thank Mission Hospital staff, Dr. Andrew Beardsley and the Messino Cancer Clinic staff and the Four Seasons Hospice team for their excellent care over the past 8 months.
We also would like to thank our family, friends and neighbors who have reached out with prayers and love during his illness.
Receiving of friends will be at Brookstone Church, Merrimon Campus (283 Merrimon Ave.) at 1pm on Tuesday, February 22nd, followed immediately by a Service at 2pm.
His service will be led by Reverend Bruce Buckner, Reverend Caleb Birchfield and Reverend Howard Hanger.
In lieu of flowers, JL requested that donations be made to Brookstone Church, Merrimon Campus.
Services
Visitation: February 22, 2022 1:00 pm - October 5, 2024 2:00 pm
Brookstone Church - Merrimon Campus
283 Merrimon Ave.
Asheville, NC 28801
(828)252-2768
https://www.brookstonechurch.org/
Funeral Service: February 22, 2022 2:00 pm
Brookstone Church - Merrimon Campus
283 Merrimon Ave.
Asheville, NC 28801
(828)252-2768
https://www.brookstonechurch.org/
Burial: February 22, 2022 3:00 pm
Forest Lawn Memorial Park
1498 Sand Hill Road
Candler, NC 28715
828-667-8715
Funeral Home Assisting The Family:
Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806
(828)252-3535
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Photo Gallery
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
JL and Geneva were neighbors, friends and care givers to my aunt, Doris (Hawkins) Hardin who died in 2011 at age 97. My aunt was able to live her last 16 years at home due to the generosity and kindness of JL and Geneva. On a visit to see my aunt a few years before she died, she was telling me that JL and Geneva were good cooks. She should have known since she ate hundreds of meals with them. I asked her which one was the best cook. She was silent for several seconds and then said, “they are both good cooks.” My first thought that came to mind when Geneva called to tell me of JL’s passing was how sad my aunt would be if she were alive. I am sad also, but glad that I had the opportunity to know JL Heath.
JL was a classmate of mine in schools in Brevard, class of 1958. He was good friend, and I send my thoughts and prayers during this time of sadness.
He was a kind and polite man of God and I will never forget either of you. You were so kind to me when my son, Mike, passed, and through my struggles back then. I will be praying for comfort for you as you miss this helper God provided what seems a short time ago.
John, Tammy, and Family,
Our entire Bible Study Class sends our deepest sympathy for your loss. Our prayers will continue for God to send you peace and comfort to all of your family.
Our Love in Jesus,
Royce, Gwenda, and Faith in Action Class
Scott and I send you prayers and thoughts during this time. We many fond memories of sharing time with JL in the kitchen at church, painting the church and many other activities. It was always a pleasure and honor to have him working with us.
Much Love, Georganna and Scott Adams
I will always remember J.L. with fond memories of one of the nicest men I ever had the privilege of knowing. We knew each other for many many years going back to our junior and senior high school years. He will be missed. My deepest sympathy to Geneva and the family.
So sorry to hear about J.L. passing. He was a good friend and classmate. Praying for your family, friends and classmates.