Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Thomas Heitz Obituary
Tom was the beloved husband of Sandy Heitz and the devoted father of twin daughters, Katie and Sarah. In addition, he is survived by his mother, Vera Esch Heitz of Harrisonburg, Virginia; his sister, Linda Giles and her husband, Ron, of Iceland; his brothers, George Heitz and his wife, Betsy, of Santa Barbara, California, and Steve Heitz and his wife, Bee, of Harrisonburg, Virginia; as well as three nieces and three nephews. His late father was George Alban Heitz of Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Tom was born March 15, 1952, in Winchester, Virginia, and grew up in Harrisonburg, Virginia. As a boy, he was determined to keep up with his brothers, despite having cystic fibrosis, and he excelled both athletically and academically. He graduated from the College of William and Mary in 1974 and began his married life with Sandy in Charlottesville.
Tom taught physical science in the Albemarle County School System, serving at Walton and Sutherland Middle Schools. He was a wonderful teacher and a mentor to his colleagues. He was loved by faculty and students and touched and enriched many lives in significant ways during his 28 year teaching career. Tom retired from teaching in December 2002 on medical disability to begin the full time job of trying to stay healthy. He was an avid sports fan and loved playing basketball and tennis. He was a history buff and enjoyed reading all things "war".
Tom found great joy in bird-watching and nature. His most recent passion as his physical health declined was doing sudokus! He was a lover of life who lived his to the fullest. Some of Tom's finest qualities included his kindness, integrity, optimism, courage and humor. His passing has left a palpable longing for him in those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.
A memorial service followed by a reception will be conducted 3 p.m. Friday, August 10, 2007, at Teague Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, Tom's family suggests that you consider becoming an organ donor, or memorial contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 6931 Arlington Road, Bethesda, MD 20814.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Heitz
Justin
February 12, 2025
He was my science teacher back in the late 90's in middle school.
Neal Rittenhouse
August 30, 2007
Katie and Sarah,
I am deeply saddened to learn of your father's death. Despite the time that has passed since I last saw him, I continue to have fond memories of him both as a teacher and more broadly, as a kind and gentle man. My thoughts are with both of you as well as the rest of your family.
Jennifer Gerlach
August 16, 2007
To the Heitz family, I am honored to have known Tom. He taught me in 8th grade, and was a wonderful teacher and mentor. I could always tell that he really loved his job and cared about his students. He will be missed by many.
Charity Worrell
August 12, 2007
I had Mr. Heitz for 8th grade science at Walton 15yrs ago. I vividly remember many of our conversations!
He definitely made a lasting impression on me!
My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
How you can show support
Traci Martin
August 11, 2007
I had the pleasure of being taught science by Mr. Heitz in the 8th grade and in my early 20's becoming a co-worker of his at Walton Middle School. Besides teaching me science, he taught me what a teacher should be to their students. He was a great man and is one of those who influenced me to go back to school and become a teacher. Mr. Heitz will be missed and my prayers go out to his family.
Fred Woodward
August 11, 2007
Sandy, Sarah and Katie-
I was so sad to hear of Tom's passing. He was a remarkable guy and I fondly remember the times I spend with him as kid when visiting you in Virginia. My love to each of you.
David Sickmen
August 10, 2007
What a beautiful soul this man had. A gift in my life. A ture hero with an amazing family. I will miss him dearly.
Donna Vest Gordon
August 10, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Walton Middle School former student. It is obvious that Mr. Heitz was well loved by his students.
Joyce Winters
August 10, 2007
Growing up next door to the Heitz family will always be part of my fondest memories of childhood. I was an only child so having adopted Linda's brothers was great for me. We were so lucky to live at a time and in a neighborhood where you didn't have to lock doors,and children could roam freely through all of the yards, playing games, riding bikes and just generally having fun. At an early age, Tom showed his courage and positive outlook. He was always with is, playing hard and never complaining of the challenges he faced. I remember accompanying the family to NIH one day, and Mrs Heitz made it a field trip because on the way home we stopped in DC at the National Theater to see Camelot. That evening as we drove home (it was a summer night), all the kids hung their heads out the window looking at stars and singing. What fun we had growing up.
I feel so lucky to know the Heitz family and have experienced the loving atmosphere of their home. My heart goes out to my extended family. You are in my thoughts and prayers today and forever in my memories. Love, Joyce
Emily Gray
August 10, 2007
My prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. Former student Walton Middle School.
Victoria Scott
August 10, 2007
My Condolences. Former student of Walton Middle School.
Wynne Taylor
August 9, 2007
I was fortunate to work with Tom both at Walton and Sutherland Middle Schools. He was an exemplary teacher and an inspiring human being.
He faced his daily challenges with a remarkable positive energy and a smile on his face. Was a pretty savvy point guard, too. He will be fondly remembered by all those whose lives he touched.
Mary Jane Pudhorodsky
August 9, 2007
Sandy and family,
Thinking of you and praying God's peace will surround you.
Ariel & Maya Goldstein
August 9, 2007
I was blessed and fortunate to know Mr. Heitz as a second father figure growing up. His dedication to fighting CF has inspired me thru my life. I remember he would get up at dawn and go runnung and then pump his lungs all before most people had awoke. Then he would drive Katie, Sarah and I to swim meets hours away. He always had a smile on his face and words of encouragement for me as a swimmer and student. I send my prayers and love to Sarah, Katie, and Sandy. What a blessing he is to all of us and an example of character for all that knew him.
Marnita Simpson
August 9, 2007
I remember Mr. Heitz very fondly as my science teacher at Walton M.S. in the mid 70's. I'm so sorry for your loss. He was kind & funny & interesting. I never even knew he had cystic fibrosis. I recall that he always seemed happy.
Shirley Hicks-Cromer
August 9, 2007
Words can not express the sorrow I feel for Mr. Heitz family. I like many had Mr. Heitz as a science teacher at Walton. Class was so much fun. He made learning exciting. The world has not only lost a great teacher but a wonderful man. I hope his family takes comfort in knowing that Mr. Heitz touched a lot of kids and not only made learning fun but was a friend to all. My prayers are with you all.
Hilary
August 8, 2007
To the Heitz family:
I, as well, had the pleasure of having Mr. Heitz as a teacher at SMS. I hated science, but he taught the subject well and I always looked forward to the class. I remember him sharing with us his struggles with Cystic Fibrosis as a child. I always admired him for being so strong. I know he will be greatly missed, but please take comfort in knowing he touched so many peoples lives!
Tremaine Wilson
August 8, 2007
Mr Heitz was a great man. When i started 8th grade i hated science but he found away to make it fun for me. Ill never forget at our 8th grade graduation he stood up in front of everyone at the graduation and went on and on about a student that started off the year kinda shaky with his studies but turned into a such a great student, he also told everyone how proud of this student he was and how it was a pleasure to teach him and when he called my name as the student I lost it. Those words made me feel so good and motivated me to be a good student always. I just wanted to take this time to say thanks to Mr. Heitz and to let the family know that they are in my prayers!!
Beki (Hensley) Thacker
August 8, 2007
When your heart is empty, filling it with happy memories can help you find your smile.
Mr. Heitz was my teacher, and at 46 I can still remember that flash of brilliance when he smiled.
Take heart in knowing there are many that love him and will be praying for you all.
Michelle Coates
August 8, 2007
Katie and Sarah my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ~
Jerry Simmons
August 8, 2007
Tom Heitz was a amazing man. He was always doing for others. He gave me faith in a just world. My life would not be the same without the powerful impact of knowing Tom Heitz. Sandy, Sarah, and Katie I am very sorry for your loss. Tom will remain with us always. My heart goes out to everyone who knew Thomas Benjamin Heitz.
Myriam Pitts
August 8, 2007
You taught science to our daughters, Mieke and Lieve and instilled in them a lifelong love for biology. You taught birding to my husband, John and ran circles around many of the basketball players. You taught me how to be a better teacher but mostly, you taught all of us how to love one another and be grateful for every day. Your sense of humor made you a treasured guest of honor at every gathering. You will always be part of our lives.
Phyllis McMeekin
August 8, 2007
I'm so sorry to learn of your loss. I was privileged to meet Tom last Christmas at a family gathering, and it is beautiful to read the many tributes to him in this book. You and your family are in my prayers!
Tannya Gardner
August 8, 2007
I remember that Mr. Heitz always had a glimmer in his eye that would make you feel like smiling. He was a very fun teacher and I never forgot him. At times we were more than a handful to deal with in class, but he never lost his cool. He was a great man. I remember seeing him not to long ago playing basketball and he remembered me. I was proud to show and tell him that I turned out to be a responsible adult. Far from the wild child days of middle school. He was a great teacher and human being and he will always be remembered.
katherine shifflett
August 8, 2007
Mr.Heitz was my science teacher when i attended Walton. He always came up with new ideas to make learning fun. He will be missed by all that were fortunate enough to have met him.
Lynn Rutherford-Snow
August 7, 2007
Sandy, Katie, and Sarah ~
Please accept my condolences in the loss of your dear husband and Daddy. Sandy, I will always cherish our many memories when we were neighbors (Short's) at University Heights years ago before the birth of your twin daughters. May God be with all three of Tom's "special ladies" in the days ahead and may your many memories comfort you. Tom was truly a special man and always had a smile. Love,
Jimmy and Lynn Rutherford-Snow and daughter Ashley Elizabeth Durham
Jane and Sam Marrone
August 7, 2007
Tom was such an inspiration to us all. What strength and such a smile I remember he had. To have gone thru so much without loosing his sense of self. Our best to Sandy and her daughters in this time of grief. May you cherish the good times!
Beth Evans
August 7, 2007
My family has had the pleasure of knowing Tom as both a teacher and friend. I can't ever remember seeing Tom without a smile. He was determined to live the best life possible despite his illness. Because he taught one son and mentored another, I know he reached the highest goal as a teacher, to have left a life-long impact on his students. He will be remembered as a kind, thoughtful, funny, caring, and intelligent man. He will be missed.
Liz Farmer
August 7, 2007
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this sad time.
We met Tom at a CF conference in Charlottesville, where he spoke to CF families, at that time he gave us words of wisdom, lots of encouragement and was an inspiration to all those around him.
Theresa (Ray) Martin
August 7, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time of loss. Mr. Heitz was my science teacher at Walton in 1975 on team 8A. He was truly one of my favorite teachers. Take care.
Denny Barberio
August 7, 2007
I worked with Tom at Walton years ago. It was a pleasure to both know him and work with him. I will miss him.
Patricia and Howard Snoddy
August 7, 2007
What a great inspiration his life was. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. My husband and were both honored to be taught at Walton many years ago by Mr. Heitz.
Charlene White
August 6, 2007
Mr. Heitz was one of my favorite teachers at Walton. He taught me many years ago but I will always remember his smile and kindness. He seemed to make learning a little easier. May God bless your family during this difficult time. Know in your heart he is in a better place.
Kim Hicks
August 6, 2007
I like many others was taught by Mr.Heitz at Walton many years ago.He was one of the best teachers there. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of need.May God bless you all
Betsy Wood
August 6, 2007
The world is a better place because Tom was in it. He was the embodiment of kindness, generosity and grace. It was such a blessing to have known him. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, Sandy, Katie and Sarah, and with your entire family.
Chucky Hayes
August 6, 2007
To the Family May God Keep you and carry you through in your time of loss. Tom was a great teacher i loved his class also i remember him teaching us tennis in the park the highlight was the free pepsi drinks we got he was a great guy. Just remember God will carry you through this.
Jeff & Nancy Walker
August 6, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kurt Hunter
August 6, 2007
I spent many mornings and afternoons with the Heitz family. Mr. Heitz, along with Sandy, Katie and Sarah, always made me feel like part of their family. Whether it was making sure I made it to the bus stop on time or driving me to a swim meet, Mr. Heitz was always willing to help. I will always remember his humor and positive, upbeat outlook on life.
Mr. Heitz also purchased a basketball goal for our neighborhood, so all the kids (Mr. Heitz included)would have a place to play.
There are countless other stories and memories from those years.
I wish Sandy, Katie and Sarah my best during this difficult time.
I feel honored to have known such a great man.
Linda Crawford
August 6, 2007
I met Tom 12/17/04 when I, a secretary to his brother, Steve, was invited to share with Steve's family, a trip to tour the White House. Tom was one of the nicest people I have ever met, and I know his family and friends will miss him.
Beth Jenkins
August 6, 2007
Tom will be remembered as a hero to many!! My condolences to Sandy and all of Tom's family.
Love, Beth
Reggie McGhee
August 6, 2007
May God's strength and grace carry you through your present sorrow.
From:Reggie and Landy.
Sara Andrew
August 6, 2007
Words cannot express how deeply your loss is felt by those who knew and loved Tom. He served as an inspiration to me to want to live a better, fuller life.
Ellen Pollard
August 6, 2007
To Mr. Heitz's family, I am so sorry for your loss. He was my science teacher at Walton Middle School the first year that Walton opened. He was a great person and one of my all time favorite teachers. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Showing 1 - 44 of 44 results
Make a Donation
in Thomas Heitz's name
Memorial Events
for Thomas Heitz
People and places connected with Thomas
VA, Virginia
Daily Progress
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Thomas's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas Heitz's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
