The Co Armagh community is mourning the loss of Heather Willis, a beloved mother, coach, and member of the Lagan Valley Vineyard Church, who passed away suddenly at the age of 44. Heather’s death has left a deep and painful void in the lives of her family, friends, and the many people who had the privilege of knowing her. A mother of four children, Heather passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025, in a hospital after being admitted for a routine hip replacement surgery. Her passing was described by her family as “sudden, but peaceful,” as she was surrounded by those she loved in her final moments.
Born and raised in Lurgan, Heather’s life was marked by her immense love for her family, her community, and her faith. She was the devoted wife of Keith Willis and a loving mother to her four children, Noah, Ben, Poppy, and Ruby. Her family described her as a woman who gave her whole heart to those she loved, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Heather’s death has been a profound shock to the Co Armagh community, where she was an active figure in many aspects of life.
Heather’s tragic passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from all corners of the community. Local MP Carla Lockhart expressed her condolences, acknowledging the deep sense of loss that Heather’s death has caused. In the wake of her passing, tributes have poured in from all directions, with individuals reflecting on her kindness, generosity, and the many ways she touched lives. Heather’s family, close friends, and the greater Co Armagh community have been left to navigate the painful void her absence has created.
A death notice described Heather as the “dearly loved wife of Keith, devoted mum to Noah, Ben, Poppy, and Ruby, cherished daughter of the late Patricia, and loving sister of Sharon and Lynsey.” The family requested that family flowers only be sent, with donations welcomed for the Revive-ICU at the Royal Victoria Hospital, where Heather received care. In honor of her life, a minute’s silence was observed before the Ulster Schools’ Cup quarter-final between Royal Belfast Academical Institution and Wallace High School, with Ulster Rugby also extending their heartfelt condolences.
The funeral service for Heather will take place at Lagan Valley Vineyard Church in Lisburn, a church that she was deeply involved with. Following the service, Heather will be laid to rest after a private burial. Her loss has deeply affected the church community, where she was a cherished member. In tribute to Heather, the church decided to postpone the launch of their new church plant in Banbridge. A spokesperson for the church expressed their sorrow, saying, “It is with heavy hearts that we share this sad news. Heather was a cherished part of the LVV family, as are her husband Keith and their children.”
Heather’s legacy extends beyond her family and church community. She was also a dedicated coach at Lisnagarvey Hockey Club, where two of her daughters play. The club, which holds Heather in high regard, paid tribute to her by holding a moment of silence at the weekend. The club described Heather as a fantastic coach and volunteer who was deeply valued by both the team and the larger community. Her love for the sport, her commitment to the young players, and her ability to inspire and support her daughters and their teammates made her an integral part of the club’s success. Her passion for the game and her role in helping young players grow will never be forgotten.
Heather’s passing has been felt far and wide, as she was a woman who gave of herself selflessly. She was someone who went out of her way to support others, from coaching hockey to volunteering in her church and community. Her infectious positivity, warm smile, and constant willingness to help others made her a beloved figure, not only within her family but in every aspect of her life. As the community reflects on her life, the memories of her kindness and generosity serve as a guiding light for those who knew her.
A major aspect of Heather’s identity was her strong faith and commitment to her church. Lagan Valley Vineyard Church, where Heather was an active member, paid a touching tribute to her, calling her a “cherished part” of their community. The church expressed that they would carry on her legacy by continuing to serve their community with the same love and care that Heather demonstrated throughout her life. The church’s decision to delay the launch of their new plant in Banbridge is a testament to the deep sense of loss they have felt.
In addition to her faith, Heather’s dedication to her family was unmatched. As a mother, she was the heart of her home, always putting her children’s needs before her own. Whether she was attending school events, cheering on her daughters at their hockey games, or helping with homework, Heather was a constant presence in the lives of her children. Her dedication to them was reflected in the way she lived, and her children will carry the lessons she taught them with them throughout their lives. She instilled in them the values of kindness, empathy, and the importance of always putting others first.
Her passing at such a young age has left her family with an unimaginable grief. They are left to cope with the absence of a mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend, whose life was filled with love and service. The hole left in their hearts will take time to heal, but the memories of Heather’s love and devotion will continue to live on in them, as well as in the many friends and family members who were blessed to know her.
Heather’s legacy is one of love, faith, and service. She dedicated her life to making the world around her a better place, whether through her role in the church, her commitment to coaching, or her love for her family. Her sudden and tragic passing has left a void that will never be filled, but her life will continue to inspire those who knew her. As the community gathers to honor Heather’s memory and share stories of her life, they are reminded of the incredible impact one person can have on the world around them.
