Dan Heath Obituary

Dan Jackson Heath Jr. entered the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 21, 2025, surrounded by his devoted wife and children in Beaufort, South Carolina. Born and raised in Walnut Cove, North Carolina, Dan answered the call to serve his country at the young age of sixteen, joining the U.S. Navy as a hospital corpsman. He faithfully served for over 20 years in the military, retiring with distinction as a Navy Master Chief. During his career, he was assigned to the Korea Medical Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, where he served alongside the 5th and 7th Marines. That unit was sent to take the Chosin Reservoir in 1950-one of the most defining and harrowing battles of the Korean War. Dan also served with the 2nd Marine Division under the legendary leadership of Lt. Gen. Lewis "Chesty" Puller. His Naval service took him on tours aboard the USS Pamina, USS Tanner, USS North Hampton, and USS Little Rock. Throughout his distinguished military career, Chief Heath received numerous honors, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), National Defense Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Navy Commendation Medal-a reflection of his courage, dedication, and sacrifice in service to his country. After retiring from military service, Dan followed the Lord's call into ministry. He earned his degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1968 and was later trained in evangelism under Billy Graham. For decades, he pastored churches across Louisiana, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, proclaiming the gospel with conviction and compassion. He led mission trips to Cuba, Israel, and Nigeria, sharing the hope of Christ around the world. Even in his later years, he continued to preach from his home, never ceasing to share the message of salvation. His life's mission was to serve the Lord and proclaim the Good News. Dan also served his local community in leadership roles, including as President of the Parris Island Marine Corps Museum. Known for his steadfast faith, humility, and wisdom, he was a mentor to younger pastors and a pillar of strength to all who knew him. He found joy in simple things-golfing, fishing, collecting shark teeth, and spending time with his beloved family. Left to honor his memory and carry forward his legacy is his beloved wife of 69 years, Darlene Jayne Heath; his children Dan Jackson Heath III (Katrina), Matthew Slade Heath (Tiffany), and Susie Evelyn Buongiorne (Nick); eleven grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. His life leaves a legacy of faith, courage, and unwavering love for both his family and the Lord he so faithfully served. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 28th, from 5:00 to 7:00pm at Anderson Funeral Home. His funeral will take place on Wednesday, October 29th, 12pm at Anderson Funeral Home followed by his burial service at Beaufort National Cemetery. "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38–39