Jesse Willard Heird, 92, of Hampstead, passed away Thursday February 11, 2016 at the Carroll Hospice Dove House in Westminster.

Born February 7, 1924 in Manchester, he was the son of the late Howell Hunter and Viola Stoner Heird. He was the husband of Etta Ruth Buchman Heird, his wife of 66 years.

He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army in the 504th Parachute Infantry Division. He was a farmer and the owner of Heird Turkey Farm. He was a member of Hampstead American Legion Post 200 and the Hampstead Lions Club. He was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church. He was a pilot and enjoyed flying and playing tennis.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are sons and daughter-in-law, Jesse S. and Sandra Heird of Finksburg and Dr. Steven B. Heird of York, Pa.; grandsons, William, Jonathan and Andrew Heird; granddaughter, Grace Heird; step-grandsons, Scott, Nick and Sean Placide.

The family will receive friends Monday February 15 from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 4:30 p.m. at Eline Funeral Home, 934 South Main Street, Hampstead. His pastor, the Rev. Amy Sarah Lewis-Rill will officiate. The family will again receive friends from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Private interment in Wesley United Methodist Cemetery will be at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Wesley United Methodist Church, 3239 Carrollton Road, Hampstead, MD 21074.