Naomi "Fern" Heyman

Naomi “Fern” (Withers) Heyman, age 82, of Edwards (formerly of Linn) passed away at 11:23 a.m. on Friday, June 23, 2023, at Lake Regional Health Center.

Fern was born October 25, 1940, in St. Louis, a daughter of the late Lawrence and Pauline (Phillips) Withers.

Fern was united in marriage to Edward “Rick” Heyman on June 11, 1973, in St. Louis, MO. Rick preceded her in death on March 23, 1996.

Fern operated Green Gables Restaurant in Linn with her husband Rick from 1977 to 1988, she later worked for the Casey’s gas station, the cafeteria at State Technical College and the deli in Thriftway.

Those left to mourn Fern’s passing include three sons: Kenny (Jeri) Kemp of Linn, Jeff (Carla) Kemp of Edwards, John (Lisa) Kemp of Guthrie, OK; one daughter: Christine Redman of Lake Ozark; one daughter-in-law: Barb (Jay) Finley of Holts Summit; an honorary daughter: Brandy Kempker; twelve grandchildren Derek Kemp, Marc Kemp, Deanna Redman, Rita Kemp, Jennifer Johnson, David Redman, Jessica Gui, Jacquelin Lynch, Samuel Pierce, Lee Benson, Grant Benson, and Paige Benson; five great- grandchildren: Jaycie Lucero, Gabriel Johnson, Jasmine Kemp, Serenity Lynch, and Vance Kemp; three sisters: Evelyn Perkins, Iva Bower, Sue (John) Stowe; one sister-in-law: Ruth Withers; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one son: Woody Kemp; one daughter-in-law: Lana Kemp; one great-granddaughter: Ariana Johnson; three brothers: Ralph Withers, Richard Withers, and Larry Withers; two sisters: Bea Jones and Hazel Warren.

In keeping with Fern’s wishes, she will be cremated. A celebration of life, potluck dinner, will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Ely Manor beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital or the charity of your choice.