John H Heath

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, uncle, brother, and friend John H. Heath, who left us on Thursday, March 6, 2025. Born in Bay St. Louis, MS with a passion for knowledge and a heart full of compassion, John H. Heath lived a life rich with dedication to his family, his students, and his community.

John H. Heath's academic journey began with his B.S. in Mathematics & Computer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1972. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him back to his alma mater, where he earned his Ph.D. in Computational Science on December 15, 2012. His scholarly pursuits exemplified his commitment to education and his relentless quest for understanding the intricacies of computational science.

His professional journey encompassed diverse roles, from being a Visiting Professor for Computer Science & Information Technology at the University of Southern Mississippi (2015-2016), to a Lecturer for Software Engineering & Investigative Research at the University of Minnesota, Crookston (2012-2015), where he was also involved in several research grants and a geographic information system project. Earlier, as an Adjunct Faculty (2010-2011) and Computer Scientist for the Navy Oceanographic (2008-2009), John H. Heath developed and implemented enterprise analysis solutions. His extensive experience included serving as a Teaching and Research Assistant on DoD and NIMA grants (2003-2007), founding Intunet, LLC (1995-2003), and managing technical support and software development at Bay Technical Associates (1987-1994). In the earlier years, he co-founded CAB Concepts, Inc. (1984-1986) and TLR, Inc. (1980-1983), leading system engineering and avionics software design projects. Additionally, John H. Heath held significant positions at Computer Sciences Corporation and Tulane University, focusing on large-scale database and distributed processing network systems, and began his career as a Mathematician at the U.S. Geological Survey (1972-1975).

Throughout his esteemed career, John H. Heath received numerous accolades that celebrated his contributions to academia and his positive influence on students. In May 1983, he was voted the second-best paper by the readers of the Small Systems Journal. The Student Athletic Advisory Committee at the University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC) recognized him as an outstanding faculty member for helping student-athletes promote a positive image on campus in the Spring of 2013 and 2015. The National Society of Leadership and Success at UMC presented him with the Excellence in Teaching Award for the year 2014-2015. The University of Minnesota Crookston also acknowledged him for having the most undergraduate grants in the same academic year. Additionally, he was inducted as an honorary lifetime member into Alpha Sigma Pi, a leadership society devoted to helping members discover and achieve their goals.

John H. Heath was more than an academic; he was a mentor, a guide, and a pillar of strength for his students and colleagues. His dedication to helping student-athletes and fostering a positive campus environment was unparalleled. The awards he received are a testament to the lasting impact he had on those around him.

John H. Heath will forever be remembered by the Preston family (Lance, Silvia, Frances, Sophia, and Marshall of Hattiesburg, MS), who adopted him as their own father and grandfather. The bond they shared went beyond friendship, with the family and their children cherishing him as a true member of their family. His warmth, wisdom, and kindness filled their lives with joy, love, and unforgettable memories. John was known as “vovo” (grandpa) John. He even became the godfather of the family's youngest son, deepening the profound connection they all shared. They called him family, and their hearts will forever hold a special place for the man who meant so much to them.

John H. Heath is survived by his daughter, Taylor Guidry (Nicholas); brother, Ned Heath (Kathleen); sister, Kathryn Kennington; nieces, Kathy Furrh (Roy), Sarah Giammarinaro (Corey), and nephews, Richard Kennington (Emily), Mack Kennington Jr., and John Heath (Kelley), along with numerous friends and extended family. He was preceded in death by his sister, Wynn Heath; parents, Kathryn and Edward Heath; and brother-in-law, Mack Kennington Sr.

As we mourn the loss of John H. Heath, we also celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on this world. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am Monday, March 24, 2025 at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church, 228 South Beach Blvd, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520. The family will receive guests one hour prior to Mass.

Edmond Fahey Funeral Home is honored to serve the Family of John Huddleston Heath.

                                                                                   The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

                                                                                          He makes me lie down in green pastures;

                                                                                   He leads me beside still waters;

                                                                                          He restores my soul.

                                                                                   He leads me in right paths

                                                                                          for his name’s sake.

                                                                                                                                                                                            Psalm 23:1-3