Rj Wayne Heath, 42, passed away on August 22, 2025, in Roanoke, Virginia. Born on February 12, 1983, in Phoenix, Arizona, Rj lived a life marked by compassion, resilience, and a deep love for the natural world and those around him.

Rj was a man who found peace and joy in the outdoors. Whether hiking through the mountains, riding his motorcycle along winding roads, or simply breathing in the fresh air by a riverbank, he embraced the freedom and serenity that nature offered. His connection to the land was not just a pastime it was a way of life that reflected his independent spirit and thoughtful soul.

He carried that same spirit into his relationships. Rj loved his family with fierce pride and unwavering loyalty. He believed in kindness above all else and treated others with empathy and understanding. He recognized that everyone makes mistakes and never judged—choosing instead to offer grace and compassion. Those who knew him will remember this rare quality as one of his most defining traits.

Rj is survived by his loving wife of five years, Laura Pyles Heath; five children: Katelyn Heath of North Carolina; Alyssa Bolen and husband Branson of Beckley, West Virginia; Autumn Cosgrove of Beckley; Aubree Cosgrove of Augusta, West Virginia; and Lily Mae Heath of Beckley. He also leaves behind two cherished grandchildren: Ellena Lynn Willow Blankenship and Elias Alan Wayne Blankenship.

He is mourned by his mother Apryle Lefevers; siblings Holly Dietz and wife Kris, Paige Buzan, Logan Reifert, and Jace Lefevers—all of Missouri; siblings Alyson Wilson and husband Ryan of Baker, West Virginia; Amanda Haglund of Arizona; Jamie Delph of Crab Orchard, West Virginia; stepmother Retha Heath of Crab Orchard; and grandmother Dolly Heath of Midway, West Virginia. Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends also carry his memory forward.

Rj was preceded in death by his father; his nephew Gage Phillips; brother Bill Creech; and uncle Billy Heath.

His legacy is one of gentleness wrapped in strength—a man who stood tall not just on mountaintops but in the hearts of those he loved. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

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