Born in Salisbury and raised in Crisfield, she was the daughter of Charles Francis "Chuck" Esley and Patricia Dawn "Trisha" Laird Esley of Crisfield.

Heather graduated from Crisfield High School Class of 1998 and obtained an Associate's Degree in Theology from the Christian World College of Theology in Salisbury.

Heather enjoyed watching TV, especially her favorites, WWE, black and white classics, and TLC shows. She loved spending time with her family and friends and going out to eat, especially to Ruby Tuesday. She also enjoyed playing mobile games on her phone.

Along with her parents, she is survived by her husband of almost 21 years, Jason Saurbaugh of Crisfield; sister, Erica Barone, her husband David, and their children, Cadence, Kennedi, Maci, and Cassidi of Crisfield; uncles, John Esley/Charlotte Glover of Kingston, Frank Esley/Barbara of Salisbury, Roger Laird/Theresa of Crisfield, and Arthur "Les" Malin of Crisfield; aunt, Linda Robinson/Rob of Virginia; brother-in-law, Marc Sterling, his wife Jamie, and their children Marcus, Sawyer, and Parker of Pennsylvania; close friends, Louise Knorr of Hopewell, Julie Daum of Salisbury, and Alicia Matthews of Marion; caregiver for many years, Nancy Hernandez; special cousin, Brandi Abbott; and many other cousins.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, John and Dawn Laird, Mildred and Benjamin Esley, and Eunice Esley; aunt, Robin Parks; uncle, Tommy Laird; and mother-in-law, Martha Harbold.

Funeral services at Bradshaw & Sons Funeral Home will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 1 PM with a viewing one hour prior to the service. Rev. Stephen S. Willing will officiate and interment will follow in Sunnyridge Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations to help the family with funeral expenses may be sent to Bradshaw & Sons Funeral Home, 306 W. Main St., Crisfield, MD 21817.