Jennifer Stewart Heathington was born on February 24, 1965, in Thorsby, Alabama, to the late James and Ida Stewart. She received her education at Thorsby High School, graduating with the Class of 1984. After graduation, Jennifer moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where she attended Alabama A&M University. A proud and faithful Bulldog, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science.
While attending Alabama A&M University, Jennifer was blessed with her first daughter, Jamie. A few years later, she met the love of her life, Rodney Heathington. The two shared a deep and enduring bond built on love, faith, and friendship. They were united in marriage 34 years ago and remained devoted to one another throughout the years. Their union was blessed with two children, Brandi Heathington and Rodney Heathington, Jr.
Jennifer built an impressive and diverse professional career. She began her work in the telecommunications industry with Nextel/T-Mobile, where she served for many years as a Testing Engineer. Her intelligence, diligence, and commitment to excellence opened doors to even greater opportunities. She later joined NASA, where she worked with distinction and pride.
Her pursuit of higher education continued throughout her life. Jennifer earned two master’s degrees from the University of Phoenix — a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Cybersecurity. In May 2022, she achieved one of her greatest academic milestones by earning her Juris Doctor degree from the Birmingham School of Law.
Jennifer was a woman of deep faith and compassion. She was active in her church and community, always finding ways to serve others. Whether volunteering her time, offering encouragement, or lending a helping hand, Jennifer consistently shared her light with those in need. Her strong relationship with God guided every aspect of her life and inspired everyone who knew her to live with love, humility, and faith.
Jennifer was the sixth of seven children. She was preceded in death by her siblings Phyllis Woods, Cathy Kine, and Randy Stewart. She leaves to cherish her memory four surviving siblings: Anthony Stewart of Atlanta, Georgia; Jerome Stewart of Detroit, Michigan; Fran (Sam) Holt of Moody, Alabama; and Daphne (Ritchey) Wyatt of Clanton, Alabama.
She is also survived by her devoted husband of 34 years, Rodney Heathington, Sr.; two loving daughters, Jamie Tejada of Bessemer, Alabama, and Brandi Heathington (Jason McCaulley) of Gurley, Alabama; one son, Rodney Heathington, Jr. (Bronte) of Huntsville, Alabama; and one stepson, Nicholas Heathington of Huntsville, Alabama. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Carrie Heathington; her brothers-in-law, Jimmy Heathington, Jr. (Nancy) and Tony Heathington; and her sisters-in-law, Amanda Heathington and Veronica Heathington.
Her legacy of love continues through her cherished grandchildren: Kaleb, Khepera, Kylie, Christian, Harmonee, Hope, Hayden, Ryan, Rodney III, David, Matthew, Daniel, and Zoe — each a precious reflection of her love, faith, and legacy that will live on for generations to come.
A Life Remembered
Jennifer will be remembered as a woman of strength, grace, and unshakable faith. She lived her life with purpose — loving deeply, giving selflessly, and encouraging others to rise to their fullest potential. Her gentle spirit, radiant smile, and unwavering trust in God touched everyone she met.
Though her earthly journey has come to an end, Jennifer’s light will never fade. Her legacy continues through the family she so deeply cherished, the countless lives she inspired, and the faith she carried until her very last breath.
She fought the good fight, she finished her course, and she kept the faith. Now, she rests in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, where there is no more pain, only peace and everlasting joy.
Service details will be available soon, please refer back to this obituary for further details once they are confirmed.
