Heidi Fletcher, 51, died peacefully on January 26. Heidi was born February 12, 1970 in Bellevue, Illinois but has known a life of travel and has lived in many states before moving to Bluffton, Ohio just about a year ago with her life partner, Tom Arnold.  While working fulltime; attending classes fulltime; and raising her son, Heidi graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with High Honors.  She taught elementary education in both Texas and North Carolina. Heidi was a beautiful and happy woman with an infectious laugh and beautiful smile.  She was outgoing, friendly and never met a stranger. Heidi delighted in small things, like the buckeyes she discovered in Ohio. She loved the beach, the sand, the water, and especially the sun. Heidi loved to bicycle and run. She loved to garden and travel, and she loved animals.  Most of all she loved her son. The only thing Heidi didn’t like was shoes and she went barefoot all her life.

She is survived by her son, Colby Fletcher currently in the U.S. Navy; her mother, Kathy Novota of Louisville, Kentucky; her father, Steve Novota (Jeanie) of Lombard, Illinois; her life partner, Tom Arnold of Bluffton, Ohio; her sister, Heather Curry of Florida; her nephew, Nathan Novota; nieces, Maya and Ava Curry, and many aunts, cousins and friends.  She also leaves behind her beloved dogs, Samantha and Karma and cat, Little Bit.  Her spirit will live on in our memories and she will be greatly missed.

Heidi’s wishes were to be cremated.  

Memorial contributions may be made to the Betty White Wild Life Fund or an animal shelter of your choice.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.