Heather Lynn Shipman, 48, of Mays Landing, New Jersey, passed away on September 23, 2026, just three days before her 49th birthday. Born on September 26, 1977, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Heather was a lifelong South Jersey resident and an Absegami High School Class of 1995 graduate.

Heather was an energetic, loving, funny, caring, and incredibly strong woman who brought laughter and love wherever she went. She had a beautiful heart and treasured the time she spent with her family. Whether sharing a laugh, making memories, or simply being together, family was one of the most important parts of Heather's life.

Heather worked at Walmart, where she spent her days connecting with people and being part of her community. Outside of work, she found her greatest joy in spending time with the people she loved most.

Heather had a special love for dolphins and butterflies, which will forever be beautiful reminders of her. She also cherished spending time with her grandchildren, Josiah and Selena. Her bond with Josiah was especially precious. Josiah was everything to Heather, and the love she had for him was something everyone around her could see. The memories they shared will remain a treasured part of her family's hearts.

Heather shared 18 years with her spouse, Ralph Fuentes, who was an important and loving part of her life where they loved each other from the Galaxy and back.

One of the memories her family will hold especially close is a recent trip to Georgia, where Heather was able to spend precious time with her close family. She had so much fun surrounded by the people she loved, creating memories filled with laughter and happiness. During that visit, she even got the chance to walk with the gators.

Heather is survived by her spouse, Ralph Fuentes her sons, Brandon Kinash and Antonio Rodriguez-Shipman; and her daughter, Aaliyah Rodriguez-Shipman, by her beloved grandchildren, Josiah and Selena. Her loving parents, Robert and Donna Shipman; her sisters, Jennifer and Lisa Shipman; her brother, Christopher (Miriam) Shipman

She is also survived by her nieces, Kiara (Travis) Williams, Angelina Ferrucci, Kayla Cayson, and Lola Shipman; and her nephews, Andrew, Bobby, Cameron, Christian, Payton, and Greyson Shipman, along with many extended family members and dear friends who loved her.

Heather was preceded in death by her grandparents, Paul (Dorothy) Shipman, Cousin Marco Gagnon, her Aunt Cathy Dixon, and her beloved uncle Eddie Greuber who held a special place in her heart.

Heather's life may have been far too short, but the love she gave was immeasurable. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, infectious energy, sense of humor, caring heart, incredible strength, her contagious laughter,and —most of all—the love she had for her family.

Her family will carry her memory forward through the stories they tell, the laughter they share, and the countless memories she left behind. Though she is no longer here physically, her love will remain woven into the lives of everyone who knew and loved her.

Heather, you were gone far too soon, but you will never be forgotten.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.

“Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day—unseen, unheard, but always near!

A visitation was held on Friday October 2nd. Burial followed at Germania Cemetery.