Donny Ray Heine

Donny Ray Heine, born on December 21, 1939, to Richard and Zanie Heine, peacefully passed away on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the age of 84, with his devoted wife, Virginia by his side. Donny was a lifelong farmer and rancher, known for his unwavering work ethic, ingenuity, and commitment to excellence.

Throughout his life, Donny‘s resourcefulness and innovative spirit, fondly referred to as “rigging it,” were evident in his approach to accomplishing tasks, particularly during his later years when faced with decreased mobility. He had a true passion for farming, raising cattle, held a deep affection for his dogs and cherished his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.   The two loves that stood above the rest were his love for Jesus Christ and his love for Virginia, his devoted wife of 62 years.

He is survived by his loving children, Dawn Dorsett and husband Paul, and Darren Heine and wife Dayna, along with his grandchildren: Jacob and wife Madeline, Jessica, Zach and wife Audrey, Elise and husband Ryan, Chase and wife Stephanie, and his great-grandchildren: Briggs, Weston, Rylie, Adalyn, Creed, Cash, and Chance.

Donny was known for his unwavering integrity and commitment to doing what was right, even when faced with adversity. He approached every task with dedication, insisting on doing it right or not at all, while maintaining a compassionate heart, always mindful of those less fortunate.

A devoted Christian, Donny was a long-standing member of San Gabriel Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, exemplifying his faith through service and kindness. Additionally, he served his community as a member of the Southwest Milam Water Supply Board for many years.

In his youth, Donny served his country as a member of the 49th Armory Division. Before dedicating himself full-time to farming and ranching, he worked for seven years at Alcoa. Throughout his career, his dedication to conservation and excellence was recognized with numerous awards, including the 1962 Outstanding Reclamation Farmer Award, the 1977 Outstanding Farmer and Rancher Award, and the 2003 Outstanding Conservation Rancher Award.

Donny leaves behind a profound legacy of hard work, integrity, and compassion. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his impact and memory will endure through the lives he touched and the values he instilled in others.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Baylor Scott & White Hospice in Temple, TX for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Thorndale ISD AG Department, PO Box 870, Thorndale, TX 76577.

The family will be hosting a reception at San Gabriel Christian Church Fellowship Hall following the burial service.