There are truly no words to capture the magical person, mother, wife, friend, and principal Heather was. Heather G. Becksted, 52, of Loleta, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on February 26, 2026. She was born to parents John and Gretchen Buell, on May 20, 1973 in Eureka. As Heather grew up, she attended Eureka High School, graduating in 1991, where she met her high school sweetheart, Aaron Becksted. She attended College of the Redwoods and Southern Oregon University receiving her bachelor’s degrees in business and communications.

In 1999 she married her former spouse, Brian Nolen. Together they had two children, Jared and Caitlyn Nolen, in Bellevue, Washington. Heather moved back to California in 2002 and to Loleta in 2006 with Aaron Becksted, bringing into her life two amazing children, Kyler and Blaine Becksted. Together Aaron and Heather welcomed their youngest son, Luke Becksted, in 2008, completing their beautiful family. With their children by their side they were married in their home surrounded by family and friends on October 10, 2008.

Heather and Aaron enjoyed an amazing 17 years of marriage together, filled with adventure, love, family vacations and lifelong memories. They loved each other fiercely, supporting each other through so many seasons of their lives, filling days with adventure and laughter, just as they had when they were 17. Heather was extremely involved in her children’s lives, cheering them on through endless dance recitals, soccer, football and basketball games. Heather was always supporting her children in their dreams and creating magical childhood traditions and memories. An unwavering support that continued into their adult lives. She loved watching them each find their own path and visiting them as often as possible.

Heather received her teaching credential in 2006, and taught at Pacific Union, Pine Hill and South Bay schools. She was so blessed to share her love with hundreds of children from kindergarten through 8th grade. She was passionate in creating a safe and loving environment for all her students. In 2018 she received her admin credential and stepped into a vice principal position at South Bay School, later going on to receive her master’s in educational administration from Humboldt State University and becoming the principal of South Bay. Seeing her students grow, believe in themselves and fill the world with light was one of her very favorite things. As a teacher and principal she loved to create magical memories for her students and staff, from over-the-top talent show performances to inflatable costumes and fun events!

Heather’s very favorite place to be was with her family, from the many craft and game nights to exploring National Parks. They enjoyed every moment of family trips to Mexico and Disneyland. Heather was filled with never ending joy, positivity and laughter. She was generous and genuine with her kindness always inspiring her friends, students and family to do the same.

Heather is lovingly remembered by her husband, Aaron Becksted, her children, Blaine Becksted and wife Bri Becksted, Jared Nolen and partner Gracelynn Trump, Kyler Becksted, Caitlyn Norris with her husband Lenin Norris, and Luke Becksted. Along with her grandchildren Ashton and Blaine Jr Becksted. Her loving mother, Gretchen Barnick and step father Rick Barnick, siblings, Shawn Buell, Meghann and Cameron Erickson, Nate and Julie Becksted, Kristin and Dave Ellis, DJ Becksted and Terra. As well as her many beloved nieces and nephews and many lifelong friends. Heather’s children, family and friends will all miss her wonderful hugs, smile, laughter and her ability to make the best and worst days feel full of light and magic. Heather was preceded in death by John Buell, her father, Doug and Gerri Becksted, mother and father-in-law, and her grandparents.

A celebration of life is scheduled at the Historic Eagle House in Eureka on Saturday, March 28 at 11 a.m. The family would love to invite all friends, co-workers and acquaintances of Heather, to join them in sharing in the celebration of her well-lived and loved life. South Bay School will be holding a celebration of life for students and families to attend on Thursday, April 9 at 5:30 p.m.

Her family would like to thank her friends for their ongoing support, her team at providence medical center for their care and for the students of South Bay School for the unending love, cards and crafts they sent her way!