748 S Fayette St, Beckley, WV 25801
(304) 252-4115
Testimonials
FAQ
Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley, WV
Live Streaming
SUNDAYS AT 9:00 AM
Give Back

Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Ms. Teresa Maria "TT" Heath

2/18/1970 - 4/20/2026

Text:

Obituary For Ms. Teresa Maria "TT" Heath

Ms. Teresa Maria "TT" Heath, 56, of Beckley, WV, passed away on April 20, 2026. She was born on February 18, 1970, in Beckley, WV, to the late Herman A. “Dump” Heath and Lois E. “Libby” Heath.

Teresa was a proud 1988 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, where she excelled as a student-athlete. She was a member of the 1987 State Championship track team, a legacy that remained a source of pride throughout her life. In recognition of her athletic achievements, she was inducted into the Woodrow Wilson High School Track and Field Hall of Fame in 2013.

Teresa continued her education at West Virginia State College, where she majored in psychology. During her freshman year, Teresa’s beauty, grace, and vibrant spirit were recognized as she was crowned Miss Freshman and selected to the West Virginia State College Homecoming Court. A lifelong learner, TT also attended Mountain State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in human resources.

Teresa was deeply committed to her community and her faith. She was a devoted member of Mount Zion Baptist Church and served as a Youth Branch Advisor for the Raleigh County branch of the NAACP. In these roles, she mentored and uplifted young people, leaving a lasting impact through her guidance, wisdom, and care. She was also a proud member of the Kappa Sweethearts, an auxiliary group of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., where she shared in the organization’s commitment to service, sisterhood, and community.

Teresa, a woman of courage and determination, was a trailblazer who trained at the West Virginia State Police Academy, pursuing a career as a state trooper with the goal of becoming the first Black woman to do so in the state. Her strength and perseverance opened doors and inspired others to follow.

Teresa, above all, was a devoted mother and grandmother who cherished her family.

Teresa, in addition to her parents, was preceded in death by her siblings Kelvin B. Heath and LaToya M. Heath.

Teresa leaves to honor and cherish her memory her children, Keith Heath, Kenya Heath, and Kelly Heath; beloved grandchildren, Keith Heath Jr., Ahmir Heath, Amelia Heath, Roslynn "Rose" Patterson, and Hazel Short; loving sisters,Tari Benson of Columbia, SC, Tracie Heath and Pauline Heath, both of Beckley, WV, and Schenille (Richard) Swain of Sanford, FL; nieces, LaToya McNulty, DawnSha Heath, DeAndra (Zane) House and Raquel Swain; nephews, Carl Waldron, Tarin Benson, Semaj’ Shannon, David Heath, Roman Swain, and Rio Swain; great-nieces, Karman House and Amelia Shannon; great-nephew, Aiden House and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, family members, and friends who will forever cherish the love and memories shared.

As per her request, she was cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

  • 05/22/2026

    Ally

    I met TT @ Pine Lodge. She was a great person & I enjoyed my conversations with her. Sounds like, on top of the stories she told me, she lived a wonderful life. I'm so sorry for your loss. Many prayers for all who had the privilege to love her.

  • 05/12/2026

    Mamie J Millner

    Prayers going up to the entire family .May God comfort you during this difficult time

  • 05/08/2026

    Verna Harbison-Thomas

    My condolences to the Heath family and my niece and nephew! Rest well, Teresa!

  • 05/02/2026

    Kathy Hairston & Family

  • 05/01/2026

    Lisa Carman

    I have so many great memories of our time together. Hanging out at each others homes, working together, family gathering, etc.. Each memory I cherish and will carry til the day we meet again and share our laughs. I am so sorry for your loss. You will forever be in my prayers.

  • 04/24/2026

    Nae manns carson

    Such a beautiful soul ❤️ im praying for all of you & her children 🙏

  • 04/24/2026

    Rhonda A. Dean

    "EARTH HAS NO SORROW THAT HEAVEN CANNOT HEAL" To Keith and the entire Heath family we are very sorry for your loss. We pray that God will strengthen you, comfort you and wrap His loving arms around you during this time. Stanley and Rhonda A. Dean

  • 04/23/2026

    Liz Hardy & family

    Prayers and condolences Tracie and family

  • 04/22/2026

    Sarah Davis

    My sincere condolences I want to send to the Heath family. Teresa was a very kind and humble and beautiful inside and out .

  • 04/21/2026

    Eileen and Clifford

    To the Heath family You have our deepest condolences and prayers. Sincerely Clifford and Eileen Washington.

  • 04/21/2026

    Angel Lawson

  • 04/21/2026

    - Charlene Wynes Davis

    Prayers

Add a Candle or Spiritual Image

Click below to add to your message.