Click here to view Giddie's ServiceGiddie Mae Heard, also affectionately known as Nana, was born on February 27, 1933, in the heart of Lexington, Georgia. She was the cherished daughter of Mozelle Darden and Joe Norman. From an early age, Giddie's warm heart and generous spirit endeared her to all who knew her. She was a pillar of strength, her resilience, love, and grace inspired all who crossed her path.
Loving those around her and putting God first was the only way Giddie lived each day. Family was at the center of her world, and she devoted herself wholeheartedly to the well-being and happiness of her loved ones. Giddie loved being a mother to all of her children whether she birthed them or not. She created a home that was always filled with lots of love, warmth, laughter, and amazing soul food. Regardless of the circumstances, she provided unwavering support, encouragement, and love to her family and friends.
Giddie was not only a dedicated family woman but also an active and engaged member of her community throughout her life. She volunteered her time to multiple charitable causes, leaving an indelible mark on those less fortunate. She was a devoted member of the New Birth Christian Fellowship Center for the past decade. She also touched the lives of the staff and residents at Teresian House for over fifteen years. Her compassionate nature and commitment to making a positive impact resonated with everyone she encountered.
Giddie gracefully left this earth on December 29, 2023. Throughout her 90 years, she accumulated a wealth of experiences and memories, each one providing a lesson learned or a lesson taught. No matter what hardship she faced she always kept great faith and a positive attitude. One of her favorite things to say was, "Stay strong, have faith and never give up." Her legacy is a strong one of love, kindness, and steadfast commitment to the Lord and the well-being of all.
Giddie Mae Heard was preceded in death by her sister Sara Nowell, husband Willie James Heard, daughter Sylvia Smith, sons Patrick Heard, James Stevenson Heard, and Randy Heard, granddaughter Eboni Thompson, and son-in-law Michael Stewart. She is survived by her daughters Vanessa Brown (James); Sandy Louis; Veronica Avery (Hilton); Kim Heard-Stewart; her son Antonio Heard (Anna Nyambwe); her grandchildren Keith Smith; Yukima Heard; Devin Brown (Meka); Fabian Louis; Jada Louis (Juanita); Najee Stewart; Chantell Avery; Akeem Stewart (Miché); Nahum Avery; Ashley Stewart; Ashley Heard; Emanie Heard; Tahjanee Singleton; sixteen great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. Giddie's legacy lives on through her surviving family members, each carrying forward the values of love, faith, and compassion that she exemplified throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A celebration of her life will be held on January 13th, 2024 at New Comer Cremations & Funerals located at 343 New Karner Rd, Colonie NY 12205. The viewing will be held from 2pm-4pm with a service following directly after. The repass will be held at New Birth Fellowship Center located at 35 Commerce Ave, Albany NY 12206 following the service.
To share a memory of Giddie Mae or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.