of Germantown, TN
October 27, 1972 - December 19, 2018
Donohue, Heather
With terrible sadness, the family of Heather Eileen Donohue announces her passing on December 19, 2018 at the age of 46 years. A dedicated wife, mother, daughter, sister, and life saver, she died after a long, victorious fight to stave off terminal cancer.
After learning she had End Stage Breast Cancer in July 2015, Heather beat the disease every excruciating morning for nearly 4 years, waking each day with a renewed will to fight-long enough to save just one more life, to make just one more difference. She was a relentless, benevolent force, and her impact has helped shape the lives of all who knew her well and so many others whose paths she crossed.
Born in Great Falls, MT, Heather graduated high school before serving proudly in the U.S. Marine Corps. While she would point out that the struggle to overcome addiction never ends, she successfully embraced sobriety in 2000. Two years later, she began a career in medicine-a path she believed God had lit so she could give her life to others. She began her calling as an EMT before earning her paramedic's license, her associate's and bachelor's degrees in nursing, and eventually achieving her ultimate goal of flying as a nurse for Hospital Wing. The Emergency Nurses Association, Memphis Chapter honored her as the 2016 Emergency Nurse of the Year.
Heather supported many nonprofits, including volunteering time in recent years with Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association's (MIFA) Meals on Wheels Program, Street Dog Rescue, Animal Rescue Corps (ARC), and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. She also invested time with Living Beyond Breast Cancer, where she served as a Hear My Voice Community Outreach Volunteer. Finally, she founded the Memphis chapter of the METAvivors peer support group.
Heather will forever remain in the hearts of her wife Rebekah, children, Christina and Jacob, and grandchild, Luna Marie; her mother, four older sisters, little brother, and extended family; her second family at Hospital Wing and other medical facilities she served; and countless friends.
A funeral service for Heather will be held at 11 am on Saturday, December 29, 2018 at Woodland Presbyterian Church, 5217 Park Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119. Attending EMS personnel are encouraged to wear their uniforms in honor of Heather's dedication to saving others.
The family asks that any memorial donations in Heather's honor be made to either Living Beyond Breast Cancer (lbbc.org) or SOAR Doggy Rescue (soardoggyrescue.org).
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9 Condolence(s)
DENISCER PEELER
Sunday, January 13, 2019
To the family,
As you already know, this woman was remarkable. She was inspiring and always so very approachable. I instantly considered her a friend. I would playfully argue with another nurse that I was her favorite nurse. Her personality was infectious and her humble spirit made you want to be in her presence just a little while longer. As sad as this news is, I can't stay that way too long because I know where she resides now. With the Father forevermore. May the comfort of the Lord be with the Family during this time and my prayers are with you. She left a legacy. My Friend.
Her Favorite Nurse 😊
Denise
Tonya Baker
Thursday, December 27, 2018
So sorry to hear of Heather s passing. i went to paramedic school with her , and have seen her in the field many times while working . She is a remarkable person , and l feel so blessed to have known her. Prayers for her family , coworkers and friends.
Andrea Tapp
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
I’m so sorry for the loss of Heather. I have great memories of her that always bring a smile to my face. Aside from being humorous, she is brave, smart, and inspirational. Her family and friends will continue to be in prayers for comfort.
Vernon Cullum
Tuesday, December 25, 2018
So very sorry for your loss.when we loss a family member it,s never easy but, the bible does give us hope that we can see our loved ones again. And at a time when death will be no more. This is a promise from Jehovah god..revelation 21:3-5, and John 5:28,29
Crystal Lloyd
Monday, December 24, 2018
Thank-you very much for your service !!! I didn't know you. I wished i had... Keep flying high my sweet Angel ...
Maureen Loyacono
Monday, December 24, 2018
Heather's obituary tells a story of a life well-lived ; she was brave and fought a hard and courageous fight against disease. He other accomplishments speak for themselves. My sincerest sympathy to all of the Donohue family in their loss of their beloved Heather.
Nancy Dutchak
Sunday, December 23, 2018
This is a wonderful obituary that captures the essence of what an outstanding person Heather was. I loved Heather's posts on Facebook--they were always upbeat and inspiring. My prayers for peace and comfort and strength are with all of her family.
Jennifer Caldwell
Sunday, December 23, 2018
I met Heather through MBC and the West clinic and mutual friends. I hope to fight my battle even half as well as she did. I’m not the life saving hero she was but she inspired me to fight for everyone as best I can. Sending love to her family and all who loved her.
Linda and Bill Kohls
Sunday, December 23, 2018
Donohue family,
Bill and I are heartbroken for your loss. May you find peace in God’s promise of eternal life and in knowing Heather was greeted with open arms by our Savior and by your dad. Hugs from Minnesota.