Heather Stites, 53, passed away at home in Ashland, OR, on October 7, 2024. She was born and raised in Grand Island, where she graduated from GI Senior High in 1989. Heather went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, graduating Cum Laude from Stephens College in Columbia, MO, in 1991, along with an Associate of Arts degree.
In 1995, she married Shad Stites and moved to California, where she found her passion in retail management. In 2007, Heather relocated to Ashland, OR, a place she cherished and called home. Known for her positivity and kindness, Heather had a unique ability to see the good in everyone. She was a source of support and compassion for those in need, and her beauty shone brightly from within.
Heather is survived by her father, Harry (Darla) Hansen of Grand Island; her mother, Judy Hansen of Falls City, NE; her sister, Krisha (Tim) Lillethorup of Omaha, NE; her nephew, Matt Goering of Missoula, MT; her grandfather, Larry Ralston of St. Joseph, MO; and aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Albert and Leona Hongsermeier, Ray and Nora Hansen, and her maternal grandmother, Dorothy Ralston.
A graveside service will be held in Grand Island at West Lawn Cemetery  at 11 am on Saturday November 2, 2024. Heather will be forever greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.