Linda Heidt Obituary: A Survivor of a Family Tragedy

Linda Heidt was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who survived a horrific attack that claimed the lives of her husband and son in 2008. She passed away on September 14, 2023, at the age of 77, after a long battle with cancer. She is remembered by her family and friends as a strong, courageous, and faithful woman who never gave up hope.

The Heidt Family Murders

Linda Heidt was married to Philip Heidt, a prominent real estate developer and businessman in Effingham County, Georgia. They had three sons: Craig, Chris, and Carey. The family was well-known and respected in the community. However, their lives were shattered on August 25, 2008, when an intruder entered their home and shot them while they were sleeping. Philip and Carey were killed instantly, while Linda was wounded in the face. She managed to call 911 and alert the authorities.

The investigation revealed that the shooter was none other than Craig Heidt, the eldest son of the family. He had been having an affair with Carey’s wife, Robin, and wanted to inherit his father’s fortune. He was arrested and charged with two counts of murder and one count of aggravated assault. He was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole in 2010.

Linda Heidt was the only survivor of the attack. She underwent several surgeries and therapies to recover from her physical and emotional injuries. She testified in court that she did not see the shooter and could not identify him. She also maintained that she loved her son Craig and did not believe he was guilty.

Linda Heidt’s Life After the Tragedy

Linda Heidt tried to rebuild her life after losing her husband and son. She moved to a new house and spent time with her grandchildren. She also found comfort in her faith and her church. She gave several interviews to the media and expressed her grief and forgiveness. She said that she did not hate Craig and prayed for him every day.

Linda Heidt also faced some legal challenges after the tragedy. She sued Robin Heidt for wrongful death and alienation of affection, claiming that she was responsible for breaking up her family and causing the murders. She also contested Philip Heidt’s will, which left most of his estate to Craig. She argued that Craig should not benefit from his crimes and that she deserved a fair share of her husband’s assets.

Linda Heidt’s lawsuits were settled out of court in 2012. She received an undisclosed amount of money from Robin Heidt and a portion of Philip Heidt’s estate. She also agreed to drop all charges against Craig Heidt.

Linda Heidt’s Legacy

Linda Heidt was diagnosed with cancer in 2021. She fought bravely against the disease for two years, but eventually succumbed to it on September 14, 2023. She died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loved ones.

Linda Heidt is survived by her son Chris Heidt, his wife Amy, and their four children; her daughter-in-law Robin Heidt, and her three children with Carey; her brother David Smith; and many other relatives and friends.

Linda Heidt’s obituary described her as “a woman of grace, dignity, courage, and faith.” It also stated that “she touched many lives with her kindness, generosity, and compassion.” It concluded by saying that “she will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.”

Linda Heidt’s funeral service was held on September 18, 2023, at Zion Lutheran Church in Guyton, Georgia. She was buried next to her husband Philip at Effingham Memorial Gardens.

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