Dean Wood Heavener

Dean Wood Heavener, 81, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026. He was born on February 23, 1944, in Hickory, NC. He was a graduate of East Ridge High School Class of 1963. He proudly served in the US Navy during the Vietnam conflict. Dean spent many years in administrative roles within the healthcare profession, serving hospitals in Detroit, MI, Johnson City, TN and Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, TN. He retired as the owner/operator of a commercial furniture manufacturing business in Cleveland, TN. Mr. Heavener was a huge supporter of UTC Athletics (especially women's basketball).

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Jane Heavener; parents, Wilford Ray Heavener and Nelle Wood Heavener; brother, Danny Ray Heavener.

Survivors include his sister, Sue Sigwalt; sons, Sherman Heavener and Donovan Heavener (Tina); daughter, Danielle Schroeder (Scott); along with several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Dean Heavener to UTC Mocs Women's Basketball at http://give.utc.edu/deanheavener or via phone (423) 425-4232 or mail: c/o UTC Advancement 615 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37403.

The family will receive friends 4-8 PM Tuesday, February 17th at Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory, 3239 Battlefield Parkway, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742.

Funeral services will be held at 11AM Wednesday, February 18th in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Everyone in attendance is encouraged to wear their Chattanooga Mocs colors (Navy & Gold).

Visit www.heritagebattlefield.com to share condolences with the family and view memorial tribute.