Heather McVoy

Heather Jo McVoy (née Hoebel), 74, passed away in peace and surrounded by love on March 24, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida.

Born on April 3, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, Heather was a lifelong seeker of knowledge and a passionate advocate for those in need. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Theatre from Eastern Illinois University and later pursued a Master's degree and PhD in Humanities while raising her family. Her academic work focused on the people whom Jesus loved, particularly the many Marys of the Gospels. A gifted teacher, she found immense joy in sharing her knowledge with others.

Heather’s career was a testament to her deep commitment to caring for the vulnerable. She believed in helping those who could not help themselves and brought that philosophy into every role she undertook. While earning her degrees at Florida State University, she taught courses in Religious Studies and Death & Dying, captivating students with her intelligence and passion. She also tutored FSU athletes, meeting their families and staying with them when they were ill. After graduation, she worked as a case worker and supervisor at the Florida Department of Children and Families before becoming a consultant advising states on federal funding for child and family services. She also served as interim pastor at the United Church in Tallahassee and concluded her career as a case worker for Elder Care Services. In every position she held, Heather’s light touched countless lives.

Her faith was central to her life. A devoted scholar of holy texts in both their original languages and translation, she believed deeply in God's infinite presence, mystery, and grace. She served as an elder at First Presbyterian Church in Tallahassee, where she sang in the choir, led the Inquirer’s class, served on the session, and helped build the church’s organ. Later, she became a dedicated member of United Church in Tallahassee. Her faith brought her joy and strengthened her connections with others.

Heather’s love for humanity extended beyond her professional and spiritual life into activism. She marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Illinois and later protested the death penalty at the Capitol building in Tallahassee. She wrote to people in prison. She was a fierce advocate for civil rights and social justice throughout her life. She taught her daughters to be kind, to face every stranger as a fellow human, to say out loud if you liked someone's hair or shirt or demeanor, and she brightened countless people's lives through her easy laugh, generous hugs, and simple goodness.

She is survived by her three daughters, who were the loves of her life: Terra McVoy, Erika McCarthy, and Brae McVoy; her sister, Holly Bacuzzi; her granddaughter, Moira McCarthy; her sons-in-law Rob Herrema, John McCarthy, and Kevin Horn; and her sister in spirit, Connie Snellgrove. In truth, Heather’s family was limitless—she embraced everyone with open arms.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heifer International, your local PBS or NPR station, Planned Parenthood, or the Children's Defense Fund—causes that were dear to Heather’s heart. In her memory, be kind to a stranger today and patronize your local library.

Crevasse's Simple Cremation is honored to serve the McVoy family.