William "Fred" Heath

William Fred Heath, better known as Fred or “Mullet”, a lifelong resident of Willard, peacefully retired from this earthly life on February 10, 2026, and was welcomed home by the Lord.  He was reunited with his parents, Roy T. Heath and Catherine S. Heath (“Mama Cat”); his sisters Jesn Cunnungham, Barbara Matthews, Laura Cumer, and June Godwin; his brother R.T. Heath; and his nephews Harold Register and Mike Cunningham.   

Fred is survived by his siblings Virginia Register of Petersburg, VA; Joe Heath and wife Lisa of Rose Hill; his baby sister Joy Brown and husband Ray of Goldsboro.  Though Fred never married or had children of his own, he was blessed with 17 nieces and nephews and a large extended family that loved him dearly.

A very special place in his heart belongs to his niece Jamie Leary; her husband Daniel and her sons James Hardison and Noah Leary.  To them, Fred was more than an uncle—he was a steady presence, and a loving father figure whose support and guidance meant the world.

Fred was a proud veteran of the United States Navy.  After his military service, he worked at J.P. Stevens before settling into a career as a CDL driver.  He later ended his career with Diversified Energy of Wallace.  Fred also appeared in the 1986 movie “Maximum Overdrive”, though he never made a big deal about it.   He never met a stranger and seemed to know everyone in town and surrounding areas.  Fred enjoyed family BBQs, a good cup of grape juice and watching Judge Judy.  He brought joy to all who knew him and his absence will be felt beyond measure. 

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

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Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wallace, NC

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