Elmer Heard, 84, of Moline, passed away Sunday, March 8, 2015, at UPH-Trinity, Moline.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM on Friday, March 20, 2015 at Olivet Baptist Church, 1115 21st Avenue, Rock Island. Visitation will be 4 PM - 7 PM on Thursday, March 19, 2015 at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home, 3030 7th Ave., Rock Island. Burial will be at Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island. Memorials may be made to the family.

Elmer was born January 1, 1931 in Homer, LA, the son of James Sr. and Joe Willie (Grider) Heard. He united in marriage to Vera Lee Gillis on October 1, 1950 in Homer, LA. Elmer was employed at Farmall as a machine repairman and also did lawn care for over 50 years.

Elmer was a man who loved God and lived his life to see his family thrive and prosper. The love that he had for spreading Gods word was infectious and spread throughout his community and his family. He was respected by many and admired by all, and he wasn't a man who ever turned a blind eye to anyone in need. He was a man who was a phenomenal father, an iconic figure, and a spiritual leader. Elmer was complex, but simple things like western movies, camping, fishing, and just spending time with his family brought him extreme pleasure during his time here on earth.

He is survived by his children, Gloria Haymon, Rock Island, Helen (Melvin) Lambert, Rock Island, James Heard, Rock Island, Cynthia Lewis, Blue Grass, IA, and Domila "Nicki" (Jason) Jones, Milan; grandchildren, Vera, David, LuKeya, Shemaka, Atrill, Corey, KiAnna, Kenny, Courtney, Ebony, Brandy, Casey, Bree, Jayda, Amirra, Al-Jamar, and Eugene; 42 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; sister, Louise West, Houston, TX; special friend, Erma Davis; friends, Deacon Clemons, Deacon Harris, and Joe Kimmins; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Elmer was preceded in death by his wife, Vera Lee Heard; parents; children, Shirley, Mary, and Elmer Jr.; siblings, James and Lucille; grandson, DeWan; and great grandson, Izayah.