May Ellen Heying, 79
May Ellen Heying, 79, of Nixa, died Dec. 5, 2023.
She was born Feb. 26, 1944, in Dora, to the late Iva (Freeman) and Claude Russell. She grew up alongside her siblings who shared in the joys and tribulations of rural life.
May worked at Fasco in Ozark for 28 years, where her work ethic and camaraderie were well-known by all those she encountered.
Her commitment to her community extended to her unwavering attendance for 36 years at the Ozark General Baptist Church. There, she lifted her voice in praise and worship, embodying the love of Christ in every hymn sung and every hand held. May was a Christian woman through and through, one who found her greatest joy in praising the Lord and extending His love through acts of kindness. She served in the women’s missionary proudly. Whether she was sharing a meal, offering a listening ear or simply being present, May’s generosity knew no bounds. She was an angel among us, always ready to support and uplift those in need.
Those who knew May Heying would say she was loving in every sense of the word. Her faith was as deep as the roots of the mighty oak, unwavering in the face of life’s storms. She was a woman of great generosity, not just in material gifts but in the countless blessings of her time, her attention and her care. To be in May’s presence was to feel the embrace of unconditional love.
May spent her years nurturing a life that blossomed with kindness and devotion throughout her life, including her final chapter which was spent in Nixa surrounded by the warmth of family and friends. May’s life was a testament to the enduring strength of family bonds and the power of faith.
May is survived by her daughter Virginia Bell Heying; her siblings Ina Bell and husband Edd Friend of Noble, Danny Russell and wife Sue of Seymour and Dean Russell of Tennessee; sisters-in-law Barbara Heying and Ruth Sales; nurses Stephanie Moran, Elaine Merritt and Cynthia Lee; nieces Regina Kirk and Rebecca Russell; nephew Randal Mineks; grandson Justin Duff and wife Macey with children Athena and Justin Duff Jr.; and a host of other family members and friends.