Wilma Jean Heath

Jean was born April 24, 1927, in Waterman, Illinois, to Earl and Ruby Flanigan Whitsell. Jean lost her mother at the age of 8, and God sent another set of parents, Orville and Bertha Davis, who had no children, to help Earl nurture and guide his daughter. Together they provided the wherewithal for a wonderful life.

Jean graduated from high school in Polo, Illinois and Rockford Business College in Rockford, Illinois. Later in life, she attended the University of Texas at Austin and graduated with honors for academic excellence in 1986 with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree, majoring in Finance.

In the summer of 1951 in Phoenix, she met Air Force Lt. William James (Jim) Heath, and they were married on September 15 of the same year. Three children were born to this union: Robert Davis (Bob); William James, Jr. (Bill); and Constance Ann (Connie), who survive her. Also surviving her are her six grandchildren: Robert Jr. & wife Lily; Megan; Jennifer & husband Brandon; William J. (Jay) III and wife Meredith; Katherine (Katie); and Carissa (Carrie) Jean. Also, her beloved daughters-in-law Elizabeth (Libby) and Mary and son-in-law, Michael (Mike) Moreland; her brother-in-law David Heath; and 7 great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death are her devoted husband, Col. William J. Heath; her parents, Earl and Ruby; her honorary parents, Orville and Bertha; and a sister, Doris Evelyn Whitsell Dewey.

Jim’s military career required the family to move often to completely new places. Jean was active in the Officers’ Wives Club and church, while supporting her husband and children too. She was an avid Bridge player and maintained many friendships made throughout her life. She had a beautiful smile and lovely laugh, both of which she shared often.

She has made a lasting impact with the integrity that continually guided her and the love she has always provided for those around her. Friends and family were the substance of Jean’s life, and she loved them all. She will be missed beyond measure.

Jean was a member of Austin’s Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, active in the Altar Guild, Bible Study, and the Episcopal Church Women. Also, she was a member of the Austin Woman’s Club, the Northwest Hills Garden Club, and the Armed Forces Wives Group.

Friends and family were the substance of Jean’s life, and she loved them all. A prized possession was a poem written by a contemporary when she learned Jean was leaving with her family to a new assignment. It was framed and presented by the 340th Squadron Wives upon her departure. Because of her love of the gift of the poem and her hope that it epitomized her life, it is given here in memory:

“Jean”

There’s just no way we can discuss

All the things you mean to us.

Your smile has often helped to cheer

Many of us through the years.

You’ve led and helped, suggested, advised,

Rarely finding anything to criticize.

Our hearts are sad to see you go.

You’re loved more than you’ll ever know.

This is, of course, as it should be.

We sometimes get busy and fail to see

Our responsibilities and duties in the proper light.

Your devotion has given us inspiration and insight.

We send with you wishes for the very best –

Good health, wealth and all the rest.

Blytheville Air Force Base will never be the same –

A great lady left her mark– Jean Heath was her name.

–Betty Stigall

Jean will be interred next to Jim at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s memory may be made to the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, 2200 Justin Ln., Austin, TX 78757.