Edward Eley Heffington Sr.

Edward Eley Heffington, Sr, age 88, went home to the Lord on October 22, 2025. He was born on September 26, 1937, in Virginia, to the late Eley Smith Heffington and Dorothy Fair Heffington.

Ed worked in various positions in radio from his high school years to the mid-1970s. In 1957, he enlisted in the reserves of the United States Army. He served in the Signal Corps and military intelligence, reaching the rank of staff sergeant upon his honorable discharge in 1963. On September 17, 1960, he married Viola Lynn Thornburg; the devoted couple would go on to have three children during their marriage of 55 years.

In addition to being a dedicated and loving father, Ed also loved serving the Church. He was ordained as a minister on June 1st, 1975, and shared his talent for teaching the Bible to help spread the Gospel. Throughout Ed's entire life, he held an unwavering faith in Christ, which he lived out in all aspects of life. From 1988 to 1996, Edward served in the North Carolina State Defense Militia (NCSDM), achieving the rank of Colonel. His service in both the Church and the armed forces remained two of his proudest achievements until his death.

A service to honor his life of faithful service to God will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, November 1, 2025, at North Haven Church, 6620 Six Forks Road, Raleigh.

The family will receive friends and relatives prior to the service, at the church from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.

Edward is survived by his children: Melodie Heffington Lewis, Stephen James Heffington, Sr., Edward Eley Heffington, Jr. (Heidi); grandchildren: Scott Alan "Scotty" Lewis, Jr., John Michael Lewis, Stephen James Heffington, Jr., Lily Ida Heffington, and Sarah Elizabeth Page.

In addition to his parents, Edward was preceded in death by his wife, Viola Thornburg Heffington; daughters-in-law: Tiffany Cassidy Heffington, and Sabrina Haithcock Heffington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Liberty Home Care & Hospice