Marjorie Kathleen Heilig

Marjorie Kathleen Heilig, known to loved ones as Kat, peacefully passed away on June 7, 2024, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 7, 1937, in Gaston County, North Carolina to the late Harley T. Bridges and Edna Smith Bridges.
 
Kat dedicated over 19 years of her life to the Gaston County School System, retiring from Warlick Elementary after serving most of her years at McAdenville.

Outside of work, Kat found joy in various activities such as cooking, baking, and traveling. She lived in England (3 yrs), Kansas (8 yrs), and North Dakota (12 yrs) and had a particular passion for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures.
 
A devout member of Life Church, Kat actively participated in the choir, Ladies Senior Sunday School Class, and enjoyed taking senior trips with the church community. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life and guided her actions both within the church and beyond.
 
Kat's love for traveling was further exemplified by accompanying her husband Theodore Heilig during his 24 years of military service that took them around the world. Their shared experiences allowed them to create lasting memories together.
 
 In her leisure time, Kat indulged in her hobby of baking, delighting friends and family with delicious treats crafted from her kitchen with love and care. Her culinary skills brought warmth and comfort to all who had the pleasure of tasting her creations.
 
Among Kat's proudest accomplishments were her children and grandchildren. She held a special place in her heart for each one of them and relished in watching them grow and succeed in their own endeavors.
 
Kat is survived by her husband of 67 years, Theo Heilig; son Keith and daughter-in-law Pamela Moore Heilig; daughter Donna and son-in-law Richard Williams; grandchildren Michelle Wallace, Jamie Norris (Elliott), Jason Williams (Alisha), Morgan Heilig, Kirstie Heilig; great-grandchildren Asante Burris, Jeremiah Burris, Harley Heilig, Jocelynn Norris; brother Paul Bridges; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Harley and Edna Smith Bridges; granddaughter Scarlett Brea Heilig; sisters Rebecca Williams and Glenda Walker.
Her family will be receiving friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 11th at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation in Gastonia. A Celebration of Life will follow on Wednesday, June 12th at the same location from at 12:00 Noon in the Chapel with Reverend Sammy Oxendine officiating. The interment will take place at Gaston Memorial Park, Masonic section, 1200 S. New Hope Road, Pallbearers will be Tony Jolly, David Jolly, Jeremiah Burris, Asante Burris, Tommy Bridges and Rocky Wallace.

Kat will be remembered for her kind heart, unwavering dedication to her loved ones, and zest for life that inspired all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace knowing she touched numerous lives with love and grace.

Memorials may be made to FANCONI CANCER FOUNDATION, 360 E 10^th Avenue, Suite 201, Eugene, OR 97401

Reception to follow at the residence following the interment.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com