Joe Heiney

Born in Fountain Hill, Pa. he was the son of the late Charles H. and Laura Pauline (Acton) Heiney. Joe moved to the Poconos with his family and operated the Split Rock Riding Stable. Years later he returned to the Lehigh Valley where he owned an operated the J & J Farms of Center Valley, training Saddlebred horses for over 45 years. A partial list would include the Hobins, Nick Antich, Karen Chrisman, Carol Graf, Claire Ricci, Candi Aversenti, Ashley Russo, and Christy Hilton.

Joe belonged to the PSHA, the ASHA and was chairman of the UPHA Chapter 15 for 15 years. He was awarded Horseman of the Year 2006 by the UPHA in recognition of his abilities, good sportsmanship, attitude and assistance to his fellow horsemen. He was extremely instrumental in the running and growth of the Children’s Benefit Horse Show. This year’s show will be dedicated to Heiney.

J & J Stables will continue with Linda Coffin-Roman at the helm. She has been a part of the J & J Stables for 30 years.

Surviving are; Niece Linda Coffin-Roman, wife of William “Butch” Roman with whom he resided; nieces Cynthia “Miki” Bower of White Haven, Tina Clymer of Stroudsburg and Autumn Bower of White Haven. Joe has two nephews Andrew Keating of Maryland and Peter Keating of Texas, two great nephews and four great nieces. He was preceded in death by sisters Alice Katzmire, Mary Anne Clymer and Nancy Butcher.