Audrey Miller Heath

Audrey Miller Heath, of Lakeland, died peacefully surrounded by family on October 27, 2024. She was born November 16,1928, in Boynton Beach, Florida, growing up in West Palm Beach. She lived the majority of her 95 years in Florida.

After graduation from Palm Beach High in 1946 and the University of Mary Washington in 1950, Audrey taught first grade in Palm Beach, FL, Chapel Hill NC, and University City, MO. She and her beloved Gordon eloped in November 1952 and moved to Lakeland in 1955, where they raised their three children. In Lakeland, Audrey was a member of The Junior League of Greater Lakeland where she was a past Treasurer and enjoyed many hours with the Bargain Box and the Children’s Museum. She also was involved with The Polk Museum of Art, the Polk County Medical Auxiliary, Finer Things Antique Club, Chapter CP PEO, and First United Methodist Church.

Audrey enjoyed spending time with family, solving the daily crossword puzzle, sewing and reading. Audrey played bridge with the same group of ladies for over sixty years.

She was preceded in death, in 1997, by her husband of 44 years, Dr. Gordon Read Heath. She was also preceded in death by her parents Bernice and Paul Miller, sister Jean Miller Brown, and brother Morris P. Miller. Survivors include children Lucy L. Heath (Tom) Lakeland, G. Read Heath, Jr. (Linda) Bradenton Paul L. Heath (Julie) Gastonia NC, special niece Diane B. Halloran (Jim) Madison GA, grandchildren Heath A. Tavrides (Jenna) Austin TX, Emily T. Woodsby (Clark) Orlando, Garrett F. Heath (Callie) Charleston SC, and Gray H. Brown (Dylan) Charleston, SC, great grandchildren Cora L. Woodsby, Ruby L. Woodsby, Jasper C. Woodsby, Stella R.Tavrides, and Cleo M. Tavrides.

Known as Boo Boo or simply Boo by her grandchildren and others, Audrey lived a delightful life and will be missed by many.

At Audrey’s request, the family will hold a private memorial at a later date.

The family would like to thank Kathy Dees and Compassionate Care Hospice for their kindness and caring.

In lieu of flowers Memorials may be made to the Memory Care Ministry at First United Methodist Church,72 Lake Morton Dr. or VISTE 1232 E. Magnolia Street .