Mary Virginia Shepard Heller, a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, in Belleview, Florida. Born on January 2, 1937, in Tampa, she lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and community.
Mary was a proud graduate of St Peter and Paul Catholic High School, where her Catholic upbringing laid a foundation that would guide her through a lifetime of love and service. Known throughout her neighborhood as a caring and compassionate “Neighborhood Mom,” she touched many lives with her unwavering kindness and generosity. Always putting others before herself, Mary was the heart of her family and a steadfast friend to those around her.
Her days were often spent in her cherished garden, nurturing life with the same dedication and love she showed her family. Above all, Mary treasured her role as a grandmother, embracing her grandchildren with warmth and devotion, and delighted in the joyous moments shared with her great-grandchildren.
Mary family was the center of her world. She is lovingly survived by her daughters Mary Lou Bush, Patricia Mosel, Kathleen Greene (Ricky), and Jessie Flo (Joe), and her son Charles Donald Heller Jr (Nguyet). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren—Amanda Mosel, Michael Mosel (Audrey), Erin Collins (Shawn), Matt Mosel, Samantha Flo Ryan (Patrick), Kristina Koski (Bryan), Brooke Heller, and Charles Heller III—and through her great-grandchildren Jaylynn, Amayah, Kashton, Kai Collins, Gunner and Grace Mosel, and Caden Koski.
Mary was predeceased by her loving husband Charles D. Heller Sr., her daughter Donna Marie Heller, and her devoted parents, Paul and Jessie Shepard. Their memories remain forever etched in the hearts of all who knew her.
Mary Heller’s life was a testament to the power of love and faith, and her gentle spirit will forever inspire those she leaves behind. She was a beacon of strength and grace whose memory will continue to bloom within the hearts of her family and community.