Heidi Cambata of Port Orange, Florida , passed away on Sunday, March 19, 2023. She was born on February 15, 1958 , in Akron, Ohio and spent most of her childhood in South Florida.

Heidi is survived by her husband, Nelson Cambata; son, Michael Cambata; son, Christopher Cambata; sister, Susan Long ; sister, Nancy Hartline (Miguel); sister, Dora Maher; mother-in-law, Phebe Ca m bata; many nieces and nephews; and extended family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her father, Mike Hartline; mother, Virginia Hartline, and father-in-law, Kershi Shiavax Cambata.

Heidi grew up in Fort Lauderdale where she met her husband, Nelson. They married in 1984 and lived in Virginia for 19 years. During that time , they often travel ed to India , Europe, and other parts of the world.

She loved helping people and was a volunteer at Mother Theresa's Mission aries of Charity in India , where she was known fondly by the children as "Aunty Heidi". In Virginia, she volunteered for Meals on Wheels, did community service, and contributed much of her time at Michael's and Christopher's school.

In 2000 , the family moved to New Smyrna Beach, Florida . H ere , s he volunteer ed at The Marine Discovery Center for many years . She was a Master Naturalist and found great joy working outdoors restoring oyster beds and seagrasses in the Indian River Lagoon.

Heidi was a devoted wife to Nelson, her true love, and a great mother to her sons as well as a second mom to many of their friends. She and Nelson opened their hearts and home to family , friends and neighbors for celebrations, backyard barbeques and holidays. You were never a stranger in Heidi's kitchen, a place where she shared her warmth and laughter , and incredible home-made meals .

She loved nothing more than spending time with family and friends, telling hilarious stories, looking through family photos and sharing memories.

She was at home anywhere world, could host an elegant dinner party without breaking a sweat, and converse with people from all walks of life , but in her heart, Heidi was a true " Florida Girl " . She loved kayaking , wildflowers, hound dogs , yard sales and local breakfast cafes . Sh e was a student of life , and nothing -- from tiny sea crustaceans to the entire ecosystem -- escaped her curious nature.

No one was more generous or down-to-earth or had a better sense of humor. She was honest to a fault and possessed an incredible passion for living. She was and always will be the heart and hub of our family.

Heidi, we miss you more than we can say, but feel your presence in every seed you have planted and every life you've touched. We are richer for having known you and look forward to the day we see you again.

Please share your favorite memories of Heidi, and condolences to the family, on this site. A M emorial /Celebration of Life service will be held at a later time .