Albertha Gadson Heyward was born September 26, 1935, she was the fifth child of Richmond and Melvine Lewis Gadson.

She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, where she served as an usher for many years.  She was employed with the Saint George Health Care Center until she retired.

In 1955 she married the love of her life Leroy Heyward, Sr. who preceded her in death.  To this union three children were born.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Ollie Mae Joyner, Lindberg Gadson, Abbie Smith, Gilbert Gadson, Shirley Green, Odie Gadson and Cynthia Gadson.

Albertha leaves to cherish her fond memories:  her children, Patricia Lumpkins of the home; Leroy Heyward, Jr. of St. George, SC and Laura (Jimmy) Heyward of Harleyville, SC; ten grandchildren, one devoted granddaughter, Shimeka Williams (Anthony) Davis of Bowman, SC, Teresa Lumpkins, Christina (Tyrone) Kelly, Monique Heyward of FL, Isaac Heyward of San Antonio, TX and AOL Benny Lumpkins of San Diego, CA, Darrin (Tonya) Williams of Harleyville, SC, Ariel Williams of Summerville, SC, Jasmine Heyward of St. George, SC and Veronique Simpson (Nathaniel) of Bowman, SC; fifteen great grandchildren; two sisters, Julia Benjamin of Orlando, FL and Cedell Gadson Butler of Daytona Beach, FL; one sister-in-law, Doris Gadson of Miami, FL; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.