Arthur F. "Bill" Heatherly, 76, of Cullman passed away Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014, with his family by his side. He was born June 23, 1937, in Cullman County to Homer and Lorene Heatherly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Rabon Heatherly; and a sister, Mary Jane Saint.

He is survived by his wife and sweetheart of 56 years, Sara Ann Heatherly; his five children, Perry Heatherly, Barry (Terrie) Heatherly, Larry (Debbie) Heatherly, Carol Heatherly Linkous, Lisa Heatherly Bice and an "adopted" daughter, Tammie (Doug) Bice. He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren, Lauren Heatherly, Michelle Heatherly, Jay (Selena) Heatherly, Heather (Steve) Bossé, Michael (Sara) Heatherly, Sara Linkous, Amy Heatherly, Kriston Heatherly, Tyler Bice and Josh Heatherly; along with his four great-grandchildren, Mollie Heatherly, Smith Bossé, Porter Heatherly and August Bossé; and a sister, Sherri (Roger) Cook. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many close family friends.

Bill was a loving, compassionate and benevolent man. He enjoyed writing poetry and watching his favorite sports. He loved country music. He befriended countless numbers of people throughout his lifetime. Through his charm, wit and kind spirit, he made anyone close to him feel special and unique. His life has touched many.

Many thanks to the CRMC Hospice for their dedication and support during Bill's illness.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Prayers for Porter Foundation, The Community Foundation of East Alabama for GMI/Porter Ross Heatherly, P.O. Box 165, Opelika, AL 36803-0165.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, at Moss-Service Funeral Home Chapel, with interment in Cullman Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Published in The Cullman Times 01/21/2014.