Tariq Jalil Heatley

Tariq Jalil Heatley, 25, of Crestview, Florida unexpectedly passed away Tuesday, November 22, 2022. Tariq was born in Florida on May 27, 1997 and was a lifelong resident of Crestview, Florida. Tariq was preceded in death by his father, Sebastian Heatley. He is survived by his son, Sebastian Heatley Jr; his mother Netsai Heatley; Cirrone Heatley; and his sister, Annessa McCoy.

Tariq had a heart of gold; anyone from his childhood or adult life would confirm this. As most would say, Tariq had a light about him. He was intelligent, outgoing, adventurous, and an amazingly talented young man. He was kind, funny, charismatic, selfless, loyal, and always tried to find the positive in any situation. He loved spending his days outside and with his friends. 

 
His family would like to speak the truth about his death, due to a drug overdose after a long battle with addiction. Tariq did try to start a new life and began to thrive before the pandemic. He started a job as a laborer in an effort to become financial stable for himself and his family. In turn, Tariq did his best to block out the negatives during this time, but eventually was overcome by his addiction. Drugs offered Tariq an escape from his demons he faced throughout his life. Silence regarding his cause of death due to a drug overdose would mean Tariq's death was in vain. If just one person's life is saved by his story, we would tell it a million more times. We know the pain of his suffering. We know the pain of our own suffering as his family, and we know there are many other people here in our community suffering as addicts or as loved ones to them. Speaking the truth surrounding the epidemic of drug use may be the difference between life and death for someone. In honor of Tariq's life, we ask that truth be spread in regards to this epidemic and awareness be raised.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2022 from 11:00am-12:00pm at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home. 436 west James Lee Blvd. Crestview, Florida 32536.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a private venue in Destin on December 18, 2022 at 7pm.

 The family of Tariq wishes to extend our sincere thanks to his loving and caring friends.

Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

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