Bryan Heith Mendoza

Bryan "Heith" Mendoza passed on August 8, 2024, at the age of 24 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Born on August 2, 2000, in Smithville, Texas, Heith was known for his passionate, courageous, and goofy personality.

Heith graduated from Independence High School and excelled in wrestling, cheer, and cross country. His passion since he could speak was to join the military. The day of his high school graduation, he left for boot camp to serve for the United States Marine Corps, where he excelled and was recognized as Private First Class. Heith's dedication to his duties was unparalleled; he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, from 2018 to 2022, during which time he was promoted to Sergeant. Heith was awarded the Iron Man title for being the most physically fit marine in Lima Company and received a Meritorious Mass from his battalion. His expertise as a diesel mechanic in Motor T led him to mentor many Marines, managing one of the toughest motor pool fleets globally.

Heith was devoted to helping others after serving in the military and majored in Psychology at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. During his attendance, he founded and was president of the guitar club on campus while learning the mastery of music.

Beyond his military and academic achievements, Heith had many passions. He was an avid gamer from a young age, cleverly hiding and playing Grand Theft Auto or Saints Row 2 late at night before school. Heith also enjoyed listening to music, learning the guitar, and creating short films. His bond with his Labrador, Bo, was particularly strong, and they spent many happy hours together.

Heith is survived by his beloved dog, Bo; his parents, Bryan and Yolanda Mendoza; siblings, Hayley Mendoza, Ryan Doran, and Samantha Divine; grandmother, Rita Bolton Whitson; step-grandmother, Rita Mendoza; grandfathers, Nacho Mendoza and Delfino Escalante, and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Dolores Escalante.

A service to honor Heith's life will be held at 11:00 on Saturday, August 24th, 2024, at St. Andrews Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Andrews Altar Society.

Heith’s passion, kind spirit, and wittiness will be deeply missed by all who knew him.