In Loving Memory of 

Shawn Renee Heath

(September 29, 1957 – February 3, 2026)

With faith in God’s eternal promises, we celebrate the life and homegoing of Shawn Renee Heath, who was born on September 29, 1957, in Bakersfield and peacefully entered into rest on February 3, 2026. She was a woman whose presence filled every room with laughter, warmth,and unmistakable joy.

Shawn was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Emma Jean Gaffeney; her father, Luther Edward Payne; her sister, Rosslyn Gail Payne; and her precious granddaughter,LayJah Renee Heath. While our hearts mourn, we find comfort in God’s promise that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her sons, Donte Heath, Ricky Heath Jr., and Cardell Carr; her daughters-in-law, Heather Heath and Faith Heath; her siblings, Jimmy Lee Gaffeney Sr., Debra Clayton, Roberta Lynn O’Neal, Michelle Crawford, and Arnetta Payne; her brother-in law, Danny O’Neal Sr.; her treasured grandchildren Breanna Heath, Donte Heath Jr., DarriousHeath, J'Layah Heath, Jayah Heath, Beaux Heath, Jada Heath, Raven Heath, Ricky Heath,Emma Heath; her step-grandchildren Christiaan Hunt and Bladen Hunt; and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Shawn faithfully dedicated many years of her life serving others as a Certified Nursing Assistant(CNA). She cared for her patients with compassion, gentleness, and dignity, often going above and beyond to ensure they felt comforted and valued. Many who were cared for also received a personal gift from her—a small joke, a kind word, or a simple gesture that reminded them they were seen and loved. Serving others was not just her profession—it was a reflection of her servant’s heart and her love for people.

Fun-loving and full of life, Shawn was always joking, laughing, and dancing. She had a special way with words—sometimes even making up her own vocabulary—but her humor always brought smiles. She had a remarkable ability to find the positive in any situation and loved lifting others’ spirits, lightening the mood, and reminding everyone to find joy wherever they could.

Her love for her sons and grandchildren was deep, unique, and unwavering. She gave freely—sometimes giving her very last—to make sure they knew she loved them. Christmases,birthdays, and holidays were made special in her own unforgettable way. Whether through her well-known IOUs for promised gifts or even something as simple as a dollar bill or a pack of socks, she made sure each son and grandchild had something to open and feel cherished.

Shawn’s laughter was infectious, her personality radiant, and her love a reflection of God’s Grace. She never dwelled on mistakes and would not allow others to either, always encouraging those around her to move forward with joy, laughter, and love. She lived to love, to serve, and to create joyful memories with her family and friends. Though she is no longer with us in body, wetrust that she now rests in eternal peace. Her light, her humor, and her beautiful spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

“Well Shawn,We Love You “