Noel Lee Heppard

In Loving Memory of Noel Lee Heppard

April 3, 1955 – July 26, 2025

Noel Lee Heppard, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away on July 26, 2025, at the age of 70.

Born on April 3, 1955, to Wray and Gladys Heppard, Noel lived a life marked by quiet strength, steady love, and a quick wit that never failed to bring a smile. On December 30, 1981, he married the love of his life, Susan (Beaudette) Heppard. Together they built a life full of love, laughter, and lasting memories.

In school, Noel was a catcher for the baseball team and a starter on the basketball team, showing early on his competitive spirit and dedication. He also loved to bowl and coached the bowling teams at Central Missouri State University during his time there.

Noel was a man of many interests and abilities. He began helping his father on the farm in his youth, which laid the foundation for his hardworking spirit. He pursued his education at Stover, Missouri, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus in Finance from Central Missouri State University.

His career journey was varied and impressive. Noel worked in banking, explored entrepreneurial ventures in home improvements, and brought smiles delivering ice cream and treats throughout his community. He served as a bowling center manager, drove trucks professionally, and worked as a real estate agent. He concluded his working years as a quality inspector for a diesel remanufacturing company.

To his union with Susan were born two children: 

• Judson Heppard, who, with his wife Candy, brought Noel great joy through their two sons, Jase and Lane.

• Stacy (Heppard) Schlue, whose daughters Lizzie and Lela held a special place in his heart. Noel was a wonderful grandfather and enjoyed each of his grandchildren very much.

Noel’s life was also richly blessed with chosen family. His dear friend, ornery buddy, and chosen brother Pat Graham, along with Pat’s wife Patti, shared many years of laughter, camaraderie, and unconditional friendship with him.

He is survived by his wife, Susan (Beaudette) Heppard; his children, Judson Heppard and Stacy (Heppard) Schlue; grandchildren, Jase Heppard, Lane Heppard, Lizzie Schlue, and Lela Schlue; his sister, Willa (Heppard) Marriott; and a host of extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wray and Gladys Heppard; his brothers, Ralph Heppard and Wray J. Heppard Jr.; his nephew, Gene Marriott; his parents-in-law, Von and Donna Beaudette; and his brothers-in-law, Greg and Scott Beaudette.

Noel will be remembered for his sense of humor, his steadfast nature, and his deep love for his family. He was the kind of man who didn’t need to say much to make an impact—his actions spoke for him, and his presence offered comfort and strength.

He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, quiet courage, and deep devotion. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Family and friends visitation will be held at Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home, 500 E. Walnut Street, Springfield, MO, on July 31, 2025, from 1 to 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mission 22.

He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.