Rowland Shirley Heatherly, age 70 of Moody, AL passed away peacefully at home May 18, 2026. Born to Shirley and Ruth Heatherly on May 30, 1955, at Fort Sill Army Base in Lawton, Oklahoma.
Rowland is survived by the love of his life, Judy Ray Heatherly and he would tell everyone that Judy changed his life forever. In his words, “The best thing that ever happened to him.”
Surviving is his daughter, Kim White. Son, Nicholas Heatherly. Grandchildren, Carlee Hamer (Dylan) and Malea James. His brother Kelvin Heatherly (Robin) and sisters Ann Heatherly Mayo (Albert), Donna Heatherly McClusky (Joe). Aunts, Laura Hitt (Al), Carolyn Davis, Betty Heatherly, Brenda Heatherly, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceded in death by his father and mother, Shirley and Ruth Heatherly. Father-in-law and mother-in-law Sterling and Bertie Ray, brother Bryon Heatherly, son Michael James, son-in-law Wade White, and niece Jamie Burnett.
Early in Rowland’s life he enjoyed riding, training, and showing horses. Later in life he became an avid hunter, fisherman, and enjoyed gardening. Those around Rowland could always count on his abundant generosity when his tomato plants began blooming. Rowland loved Alabama football almost as much as he loved playfully picking at his grandkids, nieces, and nephews.
He worked hard all his life starting at a young age on the farm. Rowland always provided for his family and if he ever saw a need he would be the first to give and take up money for the cause. Rowland most recently provided funds to the South Side Baptist Church Food Bank. Early in his career he worked as an electrician, coal truck driver and retired out of the Operating Engineer Union.
Rowland fought gallantly against a debilitating disease. He went home Monday morning to be with loved ones who passed before him. He is at peace and resting with Our Lord now.
Visitation for Rowland Heatherly will take place Friday, May 22, 2026, at Moss Service Funeral Home in Cullman, AL beginning at 1 p.m. with services to follow at 3 p.m. Burial will take place at Johnson Grove Cemetery in Bremen, AL.
