Notice regarding Coronavirus...Read More

Plan Ahead

Devine, Heather Marlene

June 25, 1957 –
 February 14, 2018

Obituary

Heather Marlene Devine (née McEachern) was born in Kirkland Lake, ON. She spent her early childhood years living in Barrie before moving with her family to Thunder Bay where she eventually attended nursing school at Confederation College graduating in 1983. She began her nursing career as an operating room nurse at St Joseph’s General Hospital where she made many lifelong friends that she kept close with until her passing. After the closure of St Joe’s, she continued on to work at Port Arthur General and McKellar General. In 1995, she was diagnosed with cancer and given a very grim prognosis. Despite the overwhelming odds against her, her sheer determination and love for her family got her through the most rigorous of chemotherapy, a below the knee amputation, and ultimately into remission. In 2000 she moved to Dallas, TX. As they say in Texas (and one of her favourite sayings), “I wasn’t born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could.” There she continued nursing (working in the Baylor Healthcare system) making many new friends, however, her battles with cancer continued. Throughout her life, spending time with her two daughters, Katelyn and Lindsey, was among her greatest joys. On her initial diagnosis, her wish was simply to see them grow up. She got her wish; she lived to see Katelyn graduate medical school and begin residency and to not only see Lindsey graduate nursing school, but to pin on her nursing pin herself. Anyone who knew Heather also knew how much she loved her three puppies and the happiness they brought her. Heather made a lasting impression on her colleagues, family, and all those who knew her throughout her battle with cancer being known for her love of life, sense of humour, positivity, and perseverance. She counseled numerous others through their diagnoses with cancer, advising them they always have a chance. Unfortunately, after a valiant and arduous 22 years, osteosarcoma finally claimed her life on February 14, 2018. She passed peacefully having had a chance to say goodbye to family and friends from near and far in the comfort of her home with her puppies, as she wanted. There will be an everlasting void in the lives of her husband Patrick, two daughters, and puppies due to her passing but her suffering is over. Heather is survived by her loving husband Patrick, loving daughters Katelyn and Lindsey, parents Don and Joan McEachern, sisters Judi (Ken) Dunbar, Elizabeth McEachern and Shelley McEachern. Nieces and nephews – Kat, Amanda, Meaghan, Ryan, Jessica, Dianna, Danny, Jodie, Jeff, Kristie, David, Keith, Alissa and Rick. Funeral services will be at St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 N. Greenville Avenue, Allen, TX 75002 on Saturday March 17, 2018 at 1PM. In lieu of flowers a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital would be appreciated. (https://www.stjude.org/give.html) “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my love you will be.” Arrangements under the direction of: ARIA Cremation Service and Funeral Home 19310 Preston Road Dallas, Texas 75252 214-306-6700

    Cathy Topp
    22 Feb 2018
    8:52pm

    There are so many memories working with Heather in Thunder Bay ORs, She was amazing. Her love of life was infectious. She taught us about faith , strength and love. Her love for all of you was evident daily. I hope you all find some solace in knowing how much she loved you all. She has touched so many lives,Heather made a difference, not many can say that,she was special,she was loved.

    Robert LeSage
    22 Feb 2018
    8:57pm

    We’re all richer having known Heather and family.

    Angi Atkins
    22 Feb 2018
    9:10pm

    Patrick, Katelyn and Lindsey,
    You are in my thoughts and prayers. Heather and I worked together at Baylor of Plano. She was such an inspiration to me. Throughout all of her battles with cancer she was always so positive and always had that beautiful smile on her face. She would talk about her girls and her face would just light up. Heaven has another angel. We are all blessed to have known such a beautiful, talented, courageous, and strong spirit.

    Cathy Hope
    22 Feb 2018
    10:02pm

    I only worked with Heather for a short time at PAGH but in that time I learned to love the bright, vivacious, strong, determined ypung woman that she was and waa so moved by her sheer tenacity and faith.
    I know that her family will miss her terribly but will also be thankful for the fight she put up to stay in this world until sure her family would be fine without her.
    Condolences to her family but this angel is free to watch you now from above.

    Nancy and Stuart McNabb
    23 Feb 2018
    12:21am

    I remember meeting Heather for the first time at a family
    bridal shower that was held in her honour. She was as nice as she was pretty and I remember thinking how lucky my cousin Patrick was to have met such a wonderful woman. Heather and I saw each other infrequently over the years and after they relocated to Dallas I kept up with her, Patrick and the girls on FaceBook sporadically. I was very saddened to hear that Heather had become terminal in the last few weeks. I always admired Heather and Patrick’s relationship and how they made a great team. They raised two wonderful daughters and I was really happy that Heather lived to see both her daughters live to adulthood and to have achieved their goals in their chosen professions. I am so sorry that Heather has passed. Patrick, Katelyn and Lyndsey you have my sincere condolences.

    Lynda & Bruno Starczewski
    23 Feb 2018
    5:16am

    Pat, Katelyn and Lindsey…losing forever someone you love is a part of life we all struggle with. During your time of loss I hope that you find comfort in your memories and each other. It was wonderful to hold Heathers hand and feel the warmth of her hug as we reconnected. Bruno and I are so happy we had that opportunity. Please know that all of your family, myself, Rosemary and John send our love and condolences.

    Leslie Daniar. (Bell)
    23 Feb 2018
    6:06am

    First met when she came to St. Joe’s as a new grad and how nervous she was. She caught on quick and blended well with all the staff. I remember how kind she was with the patients when they came for surgery. Condolences to Pat and family

    Mary Demarce
    23 Feb 2018
    7:55am

    Our condolences to Don, Joan, Shelley, Beth and all the rest of the family and friends. Cam and Mary

    Kathy Scott
    23 Feb 2018
    8:37am

    Dear Pat, Katelyn and Lindsey
    My thoughts and prayers are with you at this heart breaking time. I worked with Heather and first image comes to mind is her beautiful happy smile. God bless you all.
    Kathy Scott

    Lloyd & Lorna Grant
    23 Feb 2018
    8:50am

    Our sympathy to all the family on the passing of such a brave lady! Our hearts go out to all of you from the Grant families in Saskatchewan

    Jo-Anne Dumoulin (née Cheeseman)
    23 Feb 2018
    5:50pm

    Though it’s been some 20+ years, I will never forget meeting “Aunt Heather” (and the girls) on my first trip to visit her niece and my dear friend Mandi in Texas. While some people that one meets fleetingly in their youth fade in memories, she remains a vivid and vivacious personage in mine. Her smile, her laugh, her stories and of course ‘Woody’ made a strong impression on me. She was a truly exceptional person. May those she’s left find comfort in fond memories of her.

    Pat Dean
    25 Feb 2018
    2:53pm

    My heart goes out to you and your family during this most difficult time in your life … Remember when we are going through tough times in our lives, Jesus doesn’t stand on the outside of our tears and cheer us on, he is the center …. He is the God who is in the midst of every thing we walk through in this life … He will speak peace to use and calm the sorrow … He can be your strength and help you through this difficult time … It will get easier but will never diminish … just keep the good memories and know God is in control … Love to you and your family ….

    Joanne James Gauthier
    28 Feb 2018
    10:11am

    I have many fond memories of summertime fun with Heather at her Grandparent’s home in Englehart. She was a lovely girl with such spirit. How I looked forward to her visits. It is so sad that her beautiful light is no longer shining although I am sure she will be beaming through her beautiful daughters. My deepest condolences to Pat,Katelyn and Lindsey. Rest in peace my friend. XO

    Charlotte Onski
    7 Mar 2018
    12:11pm

    God speed Heather. If there is a heaven you will no doubt be there. Here’s hoping you get to run and laugh and do all that brings you joy. You beat the odds for so many years! Good on you. Will keep you in our thoughts forever. My mom was heartbroken, but also relieved that your suffering is over. Take care Pat, and girls.

    Elizabeth McEachern
    14 Mar 2018
    10:48am

    Heather,my beautiful sister, I will miss you more than words can say. I love you so much yesterday, today and forever. Thank you for funny moments, your wonderful sense of humour and your kind heart that was bigger than the whole state of Texas! My heart goes out to Pat, Lindsey and Katelyn.. and to all of our extended family and friends. Mum and dad miss you too. I will keep you close in my heart until the day comes that I will see you again. Love you, beautiful!

    Laurie McCarthy
    14 Mar 2018
    11:44am

    I have never known life without Heather in it!
    Her smile and laugh are something I will hold close as I learn to navigate this new path without my old sidekick.
    I will be thinking about you all this Saturday.
    Sending love and hugs.
    Xo

    Marianne Jollineau
    15 Mar 2018
    1:30pm

    Dear Devine Family,
    My prayers and thoughts are with you from here in Thunder Bay. Your Mother’s courage has been an inspiration as is your love and support for one another. Love was and is the answer. May God’s promises give you peace. Mme Jollineau XO

Leave A Condolence

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Testimonials

R. Driver
Read More
"Excellent customer service, they made you feel like you were their only customer. Very helpful and explained what we should expect during the process. They basically took care of our needs during this time. They contacted DFW National Cemetery for us which made it a smooth experience. Definitely will use them again."
K. Barker
Read More
"I was amazed how professional the team at Aria Funeral Preston Dallas Texas are. They guided me through the process and my options of their services that they offered for my mother. They are compassionate, caring, calm, good listener, efficient and did an excellent job! Thank you!"
R. Woll
Read More
"If I could give 6 stars I would. Aria made a difficult easier to deal with by basically taking care of everything in an efficient but very empathetic manner. I can speak highly enough of Dusty Martin, who helped us with all of the planning and logistics. He was incredibly understanding and helpful."
Angel M.
Read More
"Nothing prepares you for the grief you go through when losing a child. I called this funeral home at 2:00 am broken and could barely talk. The amount of compassion and empathy they showed me immediately let me know I found the right place to cremate my son. I cannot thank them enough for their professionalism, SINCERE concern, and commitment to making sure my son was honored in the most respectful way. I hope this Funeral home values her as much as my family and I do."
McGee Family
Read More
"Wayne and Staff, thank you for taking care of the arrangements for our mom, Exter McGee and our dad, Philip McGee. You have been great to work with during such a difficult time."
Elledge Family
Elledge Family
Read More
"On behalf of my family, I wanted you to know how much we appreciate your handling of my husband's final arrangements. Wayne Baxter assisted & guided us through the entire process with such care & compassion. Don't know what we would have done without him! Sincerely, Colleen Elledge"
The Peterson Family
The Peterson FamilyYelp! Review - Northwest Highway 5-Stars
Read More
"I can’t say enough about how helpful and professional Dusty Martin, the funeral director at the Aria Cremation location on NW Highway has been. From my initial call, he was kind and informative. My friend died at home while on hospice and she was picked up in about an hour after receiving the call from the hospice nurse. The person who arrived to pick her up was also very professional/respectful and allowed us to take as much time with her as we wished. When I met with Dusty the next day about arrangements, he explained the process and options available without being pushy or trying to “sell” extras. Throughout the process, he kept me informed and, for example, was careful to be certain I understood the cost of the obituary I wanted and offered some options for reducing that cost if I wished. When I stopped by for another reason and started talking about some of the problems I was having with the pictures and media I hoped to use at a memorial lunch I was planning, he not only listened patiently but offered technology advice and let me use his personal media player. I have had experience arranging cremations for four others using two other local companies, and this experience with Dusty at Aria has been by far the best one I have had."
Paula Barnes
Paula BarnesGoogle Review
Read More
"My Daddy’s service and our family experience at Aria Northwest Highway was truly blessed. Funeral Director Dustin Martin is the kind of person that you would like to see on a more regular basis – but in his industry – you hope to not see him that often. That being said – THANK YOU DUSTIN for your unending kindness, compassion and friendship through the process. Meeting you and discussing Dallas History, Find A Grave and my Dad’s lifelong contributions to the great City of Dallas was simply wonderful! In memory of my dad James A. Dodd, Sr. – I want to personally thank you and let you know that you made everything better in that moment. Your calling to “Be There” is spot on. Aria has a one in a million guy in you! Bling Blinky of TEXAS Shout Out: God Bless You!!"
Previous
Next

Get In Touch

Locations

Immediate Attention

Contact Us

Preston Road

“George Bush at Preston”

Aria - Northwest Highway

“5 Miles East of Hillcrest Memorial Park / Lake Highlands”

Funeral Homes Irving Tx: Aria Cremation

“Belt Line Road at 183”

Fannin Memorial Gardens

Veterans Funeral Services

Darst Funeral Home

Search Obituaries

Search

Important Information

  1. If death has occurred and or is imminent, please call the Aria location nearest you.

    PRESTON ROAD
    214.306.6700

    NORTHWEST HIGHWAY
    214.340.8008

    BELTLINE ROAD
    972.607.4400

  2. Click here to Download the Cremation Forms.
  3. Have the cremation authorization form notarized
  4. Fax the forms back to us at:
    • NW Highway
      214-340-8009
    • Preston Rd.
      972-526-7410
    • Belt Line Rd.
      972-573-1008
 

Additional Information