R. Heaviland

R. Lee Heaviland, 78, of Independence, MO, passed away Thursday, December 6, 2007 at his home. Memorial Services will be 2:30 p.m. Thursday, December 13, 2007 at Beacon Heights Congregation of the Community of Christ Church. Visitation will be 6-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 12, 2007 at Speaks Suburban Chapel. Private entombment at Mound Grove Mausoleum. Lee was born June 26, 1929 in Detroit, MI to Clarence and Marjorie (Rossiter) Heaviland. Lee’s life revolved around farming, even though he was born in Detroit, Mich. He managed a large dairy farm in Independence and cultivated up to 1000 acres of crops to feed the herd of about 100 cows. He raised his tuition for Graceland College by working on a farm near Detroit. After one year at Graceland, he met his future wife and then continued his education at Michigan State University and earned a degree in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry in 1950. His family and his church work were paramount in his life. He has been pastor at Beacon Heights Church, he has taught Sunday school classes and participated in something every Sunday of his life. Lee was active in Scouting for years and Marion and Lee were part of the Marriage Enrichment Program. He has been on the neighbor hood council. Lee is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marion (White) Heaviland; two sons Ron and Richard of the area and his daughter Deborah Pickens and Husband Bob, of Farnham, Surrey, England and four grandchildren. Contributions in his honor may be made to the Outreach International Foundation or a Charity of your choice.