Rev. Dr. John W. Heyward Jr. was born November 20, 1934, in Florence, South Carolina, to the late John and Wilhelmina Heyward. Dr. Heyward enrolled at Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC where he received his B.A. degree in Religion and History. He served the United Methodist Church for many years, from Charleston, SC to St. Louis, MO. In St. Louis, Dr. Heyward served Union Memorial, Cabanne, St. John’s, University, and Unity United Methodist churches. He was the youngest District Superintendent for the Charleston, SC District, and the first black District Superintendent in the MO Conference.
He received a Master of Divinity Degree from Gammon Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA. In addition, his three honorary Doctor of Divinity Degrees were bestowed upon him by Central Methodist College in Fayette, MO, Gammon at the Atlanta Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Georgia, and Claflin University.
He has received numerous awards, including Who’s Who in Methodism, “Outstanding Contributions to the Christian Ministry” from Claflin, and the Official Key-to-the-City of Columbus, GA for outstanding community work. Dr. Heyward has also been an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
In the U.S. Air Force Reserves, Dr. Heyward served as Chaplain for 22 years, retiring as Lt. Colonel. He was the first black Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve Chaplaincy.
Dr. Heyward transitioned to his heavenly home on November 28, 2024, after a lengthy illness 8 days after his 90th birthday. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 63 years, Dorothy T. Heyward; daughter, Joy-Lynn Heyward; 4 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. His son, John “Jay” Heyward III preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held December 9th 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm with Alpha Omega service at 6:06 pm. Funeral service will be December 10th at 10:00 am with a visitation from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Both are being held at Union Memorial United Methodist Church, 1141 Belt Avenue, 63112. Interment will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.