November 11, 1940 – July 17, 2025
Beaufort
John Lawson Heles, 84 of Beaufort, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Sprenger Healthcare of Port Royal. Visitation for John was held Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, and a Memorial Mass took place at the St. Peter’s Historic Church on Friday, July 25, 2025, with inurnment following at the St. Peter’s Columbarium.
John was born on November 11, 1940, in San Diego, Calif., the son of the late John Baptist and Wilma (Lawson) Heles. As the son of a USMC Colonel, he and his siblings moved all over before establishing roots in Beaufort. He later moved to North Carolina and was graduate of UNC Charlotte. He came back to Beaufort, where he sold insurance. John loved gardening and enjoyed sharing the fruits of his labors. He was a longtime member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church and enjoyed attending Adoration and Bible Study. His bright smile and caring nature made him a friend to everyone he met. He either greeted you with the firmest handshake you’ve ever had or an enveloping hug with a huge pat on the back. He loved reminiscing and always had a story to tell.
Survivors include his daughter Mary “Missy” (Michael) Heles-Moberly; son Drew (Patricia) Heles; grandchildren Devin, Drake and Dade Stanley, Dallen Moberly, Tristan and Chloe Heles; brother Mark Heles; sister Ginny Burnett; and also, many loved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Chris Heles and Carole Hill.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Mirasol Health (formerly Hospice Care of the Lowcountry) in John’s name. Https://mirasolhealth.org/donate/
