Bud Heath

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Melvin L. “Bud” Heath, age 77, of Joplin, passed away on Thursday February 19, 2015, at his home, following an illness. 

Bud was born on November 26, 1937 in Golden City, Mo., the son of the late Hallet H. and Bernice G. (Wright) Heath. He has been a lifetime area resident. He served in the United States Army during the Berlin Crisis. He married Mary G. “Pat” Morgan and together they raised three daughters. He was an original co-owner, with his brother Bill Heath, of the Heath Brothers Barber Shop. After forty-eight years he finished his career at the Heath Sisters Barber Shop, retiring in 2014. He enjoyed raising cattle, collecting antiques, woodworking and going to the lake with family. He was a great cook who loved fixing breakfast for his girls and grandchildren, whom he loved dearly. Bud had a love for life. He had a great sense of humor, and a way about him that made people feel special. He was an excellent barber and a true friend to many. He was a wonderful father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed. 

He is survived by three daughters, Sherry Dunlay and husband Jim, Centrailia, Il., Tracy Lowry and husband Wayne, Seneca, Mo., and Shannon Heath, Seneca, Mo.; three brothers, John Heath, Joplin, Bill Heath, Seneca, Mo., and Jim Heath, Redings Mill, Mo.; one sister, Kay Cargile, Webb City, Mo.; six grandchildren, Morgan Lopez, Madison Lopez, Meredith Lopez, Mirana Heath, Wyatt Lowry, and Jordan Lowry; and two great-grandchildren, Kain Lopez and Raigen Lopez.. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary “Pat” in 2012, and by one brother, Lloyd Heath in 1976. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Hospice Compassus and their many family members and friends for the help and support given to them during Bud's illness. It was Bud’s request to be cremated. 

Friends and family are welcome to attend a Celebration of Bud’s life Sunday, February 22nd at 3:00 p.m. at the Heath Sisters Barber Shop, 2814 E 7th Street, Joplin. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.