Mildred E. Heffelfinger

Mildred E. Heffelfinger, 97, of Decatur, Ga., passed away on May 18, 2011. Mildred was born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania. She graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from Marywood College. She had professional careers as a teacher and dietitian. As a teacher she taught Home Economics, Science and English in the Scranton Public Schools and in New Jersey. As a dietitian she was supervising dietitian for ARA Food Services Southern Region, traveling seven southern states to work with School, College, Business, and Hospital units. She moved to Decatur in 1971, and was an active member of Decatur First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, and Church Women United. Mildred retired from her professional career at age 70, but that did not mean suspending her activities – or seemingly even slowing down. She was active in several book clubs, volunteered at Fernbank Museum and Decatur Emergency Assistance Management Food Pantry, and taught knitting and crocheting groups at Philips Tower. Mildred enjoyed reading, playing the piano, watching Braves baseball, and traveling with her sister on many trips across the United States and around the world. Church Women United recently honored her by presenting her with a "Valiant Women Award" for the many good works she has done. Throughout her life, Mildred approached her responsibilities as student, mother, church member, teacher, dietitian, volunteer, mentor and friend with enthusiasm, intelligence, skill and compassion. Although her smile will be missed, her spirit and positive outlook on life will be remembered. She is survived by her son and his wife, Roger and Wanda Heffelfinger of Marietta, Ga.; 2 grandchildren, Kristin Peterson and Lauren Heffelfinger; her sister, Louise Robinson of Dupont, Pa.; and nieces, Jane Von Bergen and Martha Dahan of Philadelphia, Pa. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, May 31, 2011, at 11:00am at Decatur First United Methodist Church, 300 East Ponce De Leon Ave., Decatur, Ga. A private graveside service was held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Decatur First United Methodist Church.

Funeral Home:
A. S. Turner & Sons
2773 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033