Nicholas Gray Heilman

Nick passed away on Monday, January 9, 2023, at the University of Virginia Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. Nick of Crozet, Virginia, was born June 19, 1978. He is survived by wife Christine, son Andrew, father Ty, mother Judy, two older brothers Chris and his wife Kerri, Bryan and his wife Scottye, Grandmother Martha Gray, nieces and nephews Drew, Evan, Miranda, Matthew, Gray, Liza, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Those who knew Nick well, certainly knew their place with him. Not one to mince words, Nick could be feisty on the surface, but was always loving to the core. Nick cherished his family, his life, and let’s not forget, a well put together outfit and the perfectly grilled tenderloin.

Despite the cards Nick was dealt, he rarely dwelled on his illness. Choosing to find joy in the little things, a good meal with his wife and son, that daily good morning and good night text from his mom, taking the scenic route on a car ride home, Nick never stopped planning ahead for a better and brighter tomorrow. His positivity for the future and his brave resolve during the most difficult times was an inspiration to all.

Nick touched the lives of family, friends, and the numerous strangers he found himself putting his trust in. Forming loving bonds with health care professionals over the years, many became like second family to Nick. And there was nothing more important to Nick than family – both immediate and extended!

Always desiring to put others before himself, Nick quietly blessed others with his generosity – the perfectly chosen gift, a donation to the needy, or even the jacket off his back. He lived with a fighting spirit to the very end and reminded us that miracles still exist.

Special thanks to: UVA Medical Center, Moffitt Cancer Center, Excel Diagnostics Nuclear

Oncology Center, Dr. Gordon Morris, Dr. Rob Pritchard, Dr. Mark Prichard, Dr. Larry Kvols, Dr. Jonathan Strosberg, Dr. “Indu”Varadarajan, nurse Janice Brock, Glenda Royael, and so many amazing care team members.