Promoted to Glory: Major Dan Heard
Major Dan Heard was Promoted to Glory on March 20, 2026, at the age of 76.
Danney Wayne Heard was born on January 6, 1950, in Monroe, LA, to parents Walter and Eleanor Heard. His calling to ministry shaped every chapter of his life, and he poured himself fully into the work of the Lord as an officer in The Salvation Army.
He was ordained and commissioned with the rank of lieutenant on June 1, 1983, as a member of the Heralds of Hope session of cadets. His ministry began with corps appointments in Alabama where he served faithfully in Decatur, Mobile Citadel, Montgomery, and Huntsville. He continued his service in Mississippi, ministering in Vicksburg, Tupelo, Biloxi, and Hattiesburg.
His journey then led him to Baton Rouge, LA, where he founded the School of Performing Arts — an innovative ministry that nurtured creativity, confidence, and spiritual growth in countless at-risk young people.
Major Dan later served as area commander and corps officer of the Tampa/Hillsborough County Command in Florida. He concluded his active service in Hagerstown, MD on July 1, 2016.
During his career, he was appointed as a delegate to the Brengle Institute for Holiness and was a member of the 161st session (1999) of the International College for Officers in England — experiences that further shaped his conviction, spiritual depth, and leadership throughout his ministry.
To every congregation, he never failed to counsel and console without judgement, yet always with truth no matter the circumstance. His unwavering trust in God was evident in the way he lived. His legacy of faith, compassion, and steadfast love will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
His favorite slogan – “Get up, suit up, and show up” – was not merely words, but a way of life. The major exemplified this motto daily through his faithfulness, discipline, and unwavering commitment to God and others.
Major Dan Heard is survived by his wife of 32 years, Major Dawn Heard; and his children: Rob (Laurie) Heard and Vanessa (Tony) Wolfe, as well as four grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life was held March 23, 2026, at the Atchley Funeral Home in Sevierville, Tennessee, with committal to follow at Headrick’s Chapel Cemetery in Sevierville.