Obituary of Heather Marie Stimson

Heather Marie (Sinning) Stimson was first and foremost a daughter of the Most High King.

She was the first granddaughter on both sides of her family. And the first grandchild on the Carlat side. She came in like a ray of sunshine and that is how she lived. Her beautiful eyes and smile caught the attention of people everywhere she went. Her spirit drew people to her.

Grandma Carlat led Heather to Jesus at a very young age. In many ways, she was a forerunner of faith in her family. Her relationship with God was the most important thing to her. She sought the Lord deeply, and her devotion spurred others on. Her identity was rooted in Him. She unceasingly sought freedom in Christ and was instrumental in helping others find freedom themselves.

When her parents divorced in 1993, Heather stepped up and helped with her siblings, probably more than she should have. It wasn’t until she left for college that the truth came out about who was really doing most chores. She has always gone above and beyond for the ones she loved.

At youth group, before Heather left for college, she made the decision to remain pure and “wait for the one God had for her.” Her mother bought her a small diamond promise ring that she proudly wore. Anytime someone asked, she would declare, “I made a promise to my mom and to God that I would save myself for the one God has for me!” Heather stood firm on purity, and by the summer of 2006 she had met the one. God gave her Seth Samuel Stimson, and they were married on a snowy day on January 20, 2007.

Heather took great delight in being Seth's help mate. They were a dynamic team and served the Church together for over 16 years. They helped plant churches and host small groups. No one was a stranger in their home, where Heather loved to cook and host. The Lord used her mightily in the lives of many, women especially.

Heather was mama to 6 beautiful children: Sether (lost in miscarriage), McKinlee (12), Haven (9), Summit (8), Remedee (6), and Marabell (4). She took joy in homeschooling them and discipling their hearts to know and love Jesus. Heather infused the Stimson home with laughter, music, enthusiasm, and a zest for life.

Heather lived life all in. She was full of zeal and brought the party with her. She loved to give gifts, go on adventures, and was a great "cheerleader".  

Last fall, Seth and Heather moved from Olathe, KS, where Seth gave up his job, to follow the Lord to southwest Iowa. They took a leap of faith and once again opened their door to neighbors and the community, where they poured out their lives to help others.

Even in the darkest of times, many could call on Seth and Heather and know they were in good hands. Heather was a warrior. She walked this journey in boldness, faith, and confidence in her maker and healer, Jesus Christ. Heather is free and victorious. She now knows, as she is fully known.