Patricia Lynn “Patty” (Cearns) Heitman left this world on August 13, 2025, in the arms of her Heavenly Father. We are certain that after thanking God for all His blessings, she ran into the arms of the love of her life, George, who passed away on November 12, 2022. George and Patty were married on August 6, 1983.
She was born in Jeannette, Pennsylvania on November 16, 1963, to the late Curtis and Virginia Cearns (Schrader).
Patty is survived by her sisters: Carol Shouse and husband Lew, Phyllis Allen, Virginia Brown and husband Bruce, Vivian Owens and husband Roy, and Cathy Brown; brother: Craig Cearns and wife Yevonne; sisters-in-law: Pat Heitman; and Barbi Baer; brother-in-law: Robert Baer and wife Tina; many nieces and nephews; and her dear childhood friend that she thought of as a sister, Edie Kistler and husband Mike.
In addition to being preceded in death by her husband, Pastor George Heitman, and her parents, was her brother-in-law, Charles Allen.
Patty was a dedicated pastor’s wife, caring and loving the people in her church and community. She loved the Lord and loved serving in the church up until last week when her health would not permit her to do so. She was always involved in taking the children to summer camp at Camp Victory, making decorations and decorating for V.B.S., making those famous pepperoni rolls, participating in Christmas plays, and she loved singing in the choir.
Both she and Pastor George had a special place in their heart for children. There was probably not a family that passed through the doors of Bible Baptist Fellowship Church that they didn’t babysit for or change a diaper. The last eight years, Patty played a very special part in the lives of Brinlee and Jayleb. She loved them as her own and they adored her.
If there was ever a woman that Proverbs 31 describes, it would be Patricia Heitman. “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” Proverbs 31:10. “Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.” Proverbs 31:29.
Friends will be received at Bible Baptist Fellowship Church, 6287 Shinnston Pike, Gypsy, on Monday from 2-8pm. She will lie-in-state at the church on Tuesday, August 19th, from 10:00am until the time of the funeral service at 11:00am. Pastor Patrick Seneff, Dr. Robbie Morrison, and Evangelist George Griffis will officiate the service. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in West Milford. Online memories can be shared with the family at www.perinefunerals.com
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in her honor to Bible Baptist Fellowship Church, Gypsy, WV.
