Christopher Daniel "Danny" Heffernan Jr.

What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him
1 Corinthians 2:9

In Loving Memory of Danny Heffernan 

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Christopher “Danny” Daniel Heffernan Jr., a beloved husband, devoted father, caring son, and cherished friend. On March 7, 2025, Jesus welcomed Danny home, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity that will never be forgotten.

Born on June 6, 1961, in Galveston, Texas, to Anastasia and Christopher Heffernan Sr., Danny was a proud island native (BOI), known by many as a “legend of the island.” He graduated from O’Connell High School in 1979, where he built lifelong friendships and a love for sports that never faded. After working several insurance jobs out of high school, Danny landed at ANICO, where his natural charisma and work ethic set the foundation for his successful career. In the late 1980s, he took a leap of faith, moving to Atlanta, Georgia, as a regional sales representative for ANICO. Shortly after, he convinced his love, Camille "Cami" Scott, to join him—a decision that set the foundation for a lifetime of love and adventure. They married in June of 1990 in Galveston and built a beautiful life together, raising two wonderful and kind children, Christopher "Tripp" Daniel Heffernan III and Megan Grace Heffernan.

Danny had an extraordinary gift for making people feel special. His energy was infectious, his smile could light up any room, and his humor was unmatched. He had an uncanny ability to tell a story, bringing it to life in a way that made you feel as if you were right there with him. Whether through a well-timed joke, a heartfelt conversation, or one of his legendary stories, Danny had a way of bringing joy to every moment and helping people heal from their pain or simply feel loved.

A natural leader and mentor, he spent over 20 years as a top salesman at A.M. Best, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. His success was not just in his salesmanship but in the relationships he built—because to Danny, every person mattered.

Danny was larger than life in every way. When he walked into a room, people gravitated toward him, drawn in by his warmth, quick wit, and larger-than-life presence. He stayed young at heart—hitting the gym to show off his impressive muscles, cruising on his motorcycle, and taking pride in his classic 1977 Corvette Stingray. He was an avid sports fan (especially of his beloved Dallas Cowboys), a passionate coach, a collector of sports memorabilia, a golf enthusiast, and a lover of great concerts. And, of course, he enjoyed nothing more than making people laugh—preferably while holding an ice-cold Bud Light in his hand.

His faith was the guiding force in his life. A devoted Christian, he traveled the world sharing the word of Jesus, always leading with love and an open heart. Through his church, Danny went on construction mission trips to third-world countries to build churches for indigenous people—some of whom had never even seen a white man before. He truly embodied what it meant to be a light in the world, touching lives in ways that will never be forgotten.

Danny is survived by his loving wife, Camille "Cami" Scott Heffernan; his children, Tripp Heffernan and Megan Heffernan Festa; his son-in-law, Kevin Festa; his mother, Anastasia Heffernan; his sister, Melinda Hanks; and countless aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who were more like family. He is reunited in Heaven with his father, Christopher "Danny" Daniel Heffernan Sr.; his beloved sister, Suzanne "SuSu" Heffernan Gitschlag; and many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who have gone before him.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his memory will continue to inspire us. Danny was truly one of a kind—the life of the party, the heart of his family, and a friend to all. His light will never dim, and his love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Danny Heffernan was a gift to this world, and while we will miss him beyond words, we find comfort in knowing that Heaven has gained its brightest, most joyful soul.

A celebration of life in honor of Danny will be held at NorthStar Church (True North Building) in Kennesaw, Georgia, on Sunday, March 16th, at 3:00 PM with visitation taking place from 1:00–3:00 PM. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a gathering of food and drinks at the Heffernan household to share stories and laughter, just as Danny would want. Please see the website for more details.

***Please share your memories and photos below***

Lodging

*Uber and Lyft are available in all areas*

Tru by Hilton Atlanta NW Kennesaw
2975 Ring Road NW, Kennesaw, Georgia, 30144

Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta NW/Kennesaw Town Center
895 Cobb Pl Blvd NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144

Hampton Inn Atlanta Kennesaw
3405 Busbee Dr NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144

Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Acworth
3508 Baker Rd, Acworth, GA 30101

TownePlace Suites Atlanta Kennesaw
1074 Cobb Pl Blvd NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144

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March 14, 2025

As a newer member of the AM Best sales team, I had the privilege of knowing Danny for just over two years - but it didn't take long for him to make an impact on me. I'll always appreciate how Danny welcomed me to the team. I first met Danny at our sales meeting in Charleston, at the end of the trip, while I was waiting for my ride to the airport, Danny came up, told me to cancel it and insisted on giving me a ride. He said he wanted the chance to get to know me a little better.

He was a truly special individual, and he will be deeply missed.

Sutton M Wescott

March 14, 2025

Danny - I will always remember how much of a positive light you were to everyone! You were such a wonderful person to always be around. You lifted me up whenever I needed it the most! You will be missed! Love you bro!

Dan Giunta

March 13, 2025

I worked with Danny at A.M. Best for all of the years that he worked there. We did the football pool together as well as numerous work related items. He was a great person to work with. But since he was in the field and I was in the home office, our close interaction was limited. But when we were together I enjoyed the time that we spent together. He was a really a great guy, and will be missed.

Henry C. Kane

March 12, 2025

What more can I say about a best friend...I first spoke to Danny in October 2002. He was the new guy at the company, and in my recovery from back surgery at the time, my wife Suzy brought my cell phone to me in bed saying, "Be nice, here's the new guy from Atlanta." I'm thinking it will be a 5 minute conversation - max...we spoke for 2+ hours as if we were old school buddies catching up. We became fast friends, and over the years there are some stories I can only tell verbally - find me Sunday. But, more importantly, Danny and I shared our Christian faith in countless conversations with each other for the next 22 years. When things did not go well for our son Matt, Danny prayed every day for him for 12 years...12 years. To God be the glory, our son Matt is 3 years sober from drugs and doing extremely well. I sent Danny a picture of our complete family, fully restored, at our church's 2024 Christmas Eve service. I was so full of joy when he replied how happy it made him - but I was not aware how bad his health was starting to fail at the time. Brian's Song was one of my favorite movies from my youth, and stealing Gale Sayers famous words from that film let me say, "I love Danny Heffernan, and I'd like all of you to love him, too." Danny, I love you brother!

Mark Kuhlman

March 12, 2025

Danny was a great cousin and a valued friend. Family events without Danny, will not be the same. God bless you Danny. Love, Patsy and Mike Murillo

Michael Murillo

March 12, 2025

Danny was a great friend to me for many, many good years. We shared a lot of laughs with each other and other friends on numerous tennis courts as well as golf courses through both good and bad shots! Danny could consistently be counted on for his friendship and positive energy. I was always impressed with his strong love for his family, our Lord, and how he effortlessly "never met a stranger". His imprint was large, and he will be missed. My life experience was much better because of Danny's friendship. RIP.

Tim Clement

March 11, 2025

Danny was a coworker for over 22 years. He and I initially bonded over our love of tennis and competition. He will be greatly missed for his humor, quick-wit, friendship and kindness. My sincere condolences to his wife and family. May he rest in peace.

Jessica Dietl

March 11, 2025

Danny shared his abundant light, laugh, faith and love with everyone he met. I had the great fortune to work with him as member of a fantastic sales team for nearly two decades. He will be missed and remembered fondly by many. Rest in peace my friend. Prayers to Cami and family.

Donna Lagos

March 11, 2025

Danny, it was a pleasure working with you for past 22 years. You will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to your family and friends. May you rest in peace.

Jill Kardos

March 11, 2025

My sincere condolences to Danny's family and friends. I have worked with Danny as long as I can remember and I am truly going to miss him and our conversations. RIP Danny

Mindy Pepe

March 11, 2025

Danny, I met you 18 years ago as a co-worker and friend at AM Best. Will forever miss your smile, humor and kindness which was infectious. Rest in peace my friend and keep all of our angels up there laughing and loving.

Sue Kjaer

Sue Kjaer

March 11, 2025

He will raise you up on eagles' wings
Bear you on the breath of dawn
Make you to shine like the sun
And hold you in the palm of His hand.

Rest in Peace my friend

Patrick McCahill

March 10, 2025

Melissa used to work as a waitress at Joes Crab Shack. Danny and family went there for dinner. Before they left the restaurant Danny spoke to the manager about how Melissa was the best waitress he ever had. That was very kind of him considering she didn’t even wait on them. God bless Danny. 🙏🏼

JeanForbes

March 10, 2025

We will miss Danny dearly. What a steadfast friend and loved by so many. We will cherish all the memories we made over the years. Cami and family, so sorry for your loss. Sending our love and prayers. Jay and Laurie Eihausen

Laurie and Jay Eihausen

March 9, 2025

I’ll miss you dearly my Baby Brother! I know you will be waiting at the Golden Gates of Heaven when I get there!

Melinda Heffernan Hanks

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