Billy Ray Heffner

Billy Ray Heffner, 74, of Gastonia, NC, passed away peacefully Monday, July 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family, at Atrium Health Care Center in Charlotte.

Billy was a faithful member of Lowell Church of God. His faith in the Lord was the foundation of his life, and he loved God and his family with all his heart. He was a devoted husband, brother, father and grandfather. He was "His wife's "knight" in shining armor". He was an avid gardener and fix it all man who also loved wood working, cooking and trying new recipes. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was a natural jokester. He enjoyed watching western movies (especially John Wayne) and sports, with basket ball and football being his favorite. He was always singing, humming, whistling or sharing a joke and had a way of bringing joy to those around him. He was a hard working man who took great pride in his career. As a teenager worked in textiles and eventually landed a job as meat cutter for Mincey Food Mart until they closed. After that, he continued his career with Food Lion as a meat market manager until his retirement. His dedication and strong work ethic helped make his store the highest profiting meat market in his district, an accomplishment of which he was especially proud of. Billy's legacy is one of faith, love, hard work, laughter and devotion to his family. He leaves behind countless memories that will forever be treasured by those who knew and loved him.

Billy is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Cynthia Dianne Heffner; children, Michelle Smith (Steve), Kim Pendleton (Mike), Chrystal Sanders (Jonathan); grandchildren, Joshua Smith, Emma Vaughn (Payton), Brooke Pendleton, Benjamin Sanders; great-grandchild, Baby Vaughn (due September of 2026); brother, Pastor Joe Heffner; sister, Loretta Trammell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Amy Heffner, sister Mary Julia Heffner, brother, Paul Heffner Jr., sister, Gail Brafford.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, August 1, 2026, 11:00 am, at the Lowell Church of God, 804 W. 1st St. Lowell, NC. The family will receive friends from 10:00 - 11:00 am prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Billy's memory to Lowell Church of God, 804 W. 1st Street, Lowell, NC.

The South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service is honored to serve the Heffner family. Condolences may be shared online at: www.greenefuneral.com.