Vietnam Veteran, Police Lieutenant who Served for 32 Years, Harvey Lawrence Heater, Jr., Passes Away

Harvey Lawrence Heater, Jr., affectionately known as “Skeeter” to many in his family, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center following an extended illness.

Harvey was born on March 21, 1949, to Harvey Lawrence “Skeets” Heater, Sr. and Ruth Jean (Cowgill) Heater.

Harvey’s first job was at Buffington Studios while he was still in high school, an experience he remembered fondly and spoke of proudly throughout his life. After graduating from Washington Irving High School, Harvey began what would become a lifetime devoted to serving and protecting others.

In 1968, Harvey enlisted in the United States Army. He was deployed to Vietnam from January 1969 through March 1970, proudly serving his country. Following his return home, Harvey joined the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, where he spent 32 years in dedicated service to the citizens of Harrison County. He retired from the Sheriff’s Office as a Lieutenant. 

Retirement, however, did not suit Harvey for long. Never one to sit still and with a continued desire to serve his community, he joined the Harrison County Courthouse Security team. He remained there until 2017, bringing to a close nearly a lifetime spent in service to his country and community.

Away from work, Harvey loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and took great pride in his abilities as a hobby farmer and gardener. He was a lifelong member of the Clarksburg VFW, Post 573. 

Harvey was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his four children, James Heater, Stephanie Grilli and her husband, Rodney, Corey Heater and his wife, Rachel, and Casey Heater and his wife, Courtney; his siblings, Melanie Squires and her husband, Mike, and Tim Heater and his wife, Zandy; and his seven grandchildren, Brandon and Miranda Grilli, Hunter and Allie Heater, Chloe and Cyleigh Heater and Pyper Heater.

Harvey is also survived by his companion, Darla Dunn. The two of them would often be found watching reruns of Gun Smoke and The Andy Griffith Show together; as well as his nieces, many beloved cousins and extended family members.

In accordance with Harvey’s wishes, he will be cremated, and a private graveside service will be held at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. 

Harvey’s life was defined by service, to his country, to Harrison County, and to the people he spent a lifetime protecting. He will be remembered with love and gratitude by his family, friends, former colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched.

A special thank you is extended to the “dialysis family” Harvey came to know at the Fresenius Dialysis Center, where lasting friendships were formed and where they cared for, encouraged, and looked after one another week after week. The family also extends its heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful physicians, nurses, and staff at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center for the compassion, dignity, and exceptional care they provided to Harvey during his final hours.

Those who wish to honor his memory are invited to share online condolences at www.davisfuneralhomewv.com.

Davis Funeral Home and Onsite Crematory is privileged to serve the Heater family during this time of remembrance and reflection.