Yesterday, I was able to sit down and interview a local DuBoisian who had been in the news for some negative reasons not long ago when he utilized our Facebook group to make a comment that put him in some hot water with the long arm of the law. Months after putting the incident behind him which was detailed in another story, we wanted to check in on Justin and let you get to know him and decide if he is the sum of his worst actions while venting on the internet. It is notable that despite Suplizio and an accomplice being charged with essentially stealing a seven-figure sum, the man you are about to meet is the only person who, to date, has been punished in any way--three summary offenses and approximately $850 worth of fines.
Introduction
Can you tell us your name and a little bit about yourself? | “I am Justin Michael Heffner. I'm a father of four boys and my kids are my world.”
How long have you lived in this area, and what brought you here? | “40 years. I was born in DuBois.”
What do you love most about living in our community? | “Most of the time the community helps each other through tough times.”
Where did you grow up, and what was it like? | “DuBois, Pennsylvania. As a child, I had my ups and downs because I dealt with bipolar.”
Personal Journey & Challenges
Who has had the biggest impact on your life and why? | “My grandfather Richard Heffner because he was always there for me when others gave up on me.”
What’s a memory from your childhood that always makes you smile? | “Fishing and hunting with my grandfather. And when I played football for the Sykesville Leopards.”
Some hard times you have gone through? | “I lost a son, Austin, who was born prematurely. I lost a niece who was killed. I lost my grandfather, and more recently, the mother of my child to an overdose. Now I raise our son alone and do my best every day.”
Work & Community
What do you do for a living, and what do you enjoy about it? | “Landscaping. I enjoy helping older people make their yards look great without charging too much. I’ve met a lot of great people through my work.”
Do you have any hobbies or side passions? | “Fishing, being outdoors, and spending time with my boys.”
If time and money were no object, what would you do? | “I’d give back to the community and make the area better for kids.”
What does “community” mean to you? | “Everyone in the area as a whole.”
How would you like to get involved locally in the future? | “I’d like to help raise money for more things for kids to do so they stay out of trouble and away from drugs.”
Is there a local cause or business more people should know about? | “Heffner’s Yard Care & Side Jobs.”
Fun & Lighthearted
Go-to local restaurant? | “Fusion Buffet.”
Fun fact most people don’t know? | “I can be very funny and sometimes a little out there to make people laugh.”
If someone made a movie about your life, who would play you? | “John Cena.”
Looking Ahead
What’s something you’ve come to appreciate as you’ve gotten older? | “That not everyone is your friend and that some of the most dangerous people may be those you thought you could trust.”
Do you live by a motto? | “Be the best you can be and don't worry about what others think of you.”
How would you like to be remembered? | “As outspoken, honest, loyal, and respectful. Show me respect, and I’ll show it back.”
We shined a spotlight on an ordinary/extraordinary individual from DuBois. Justin Heffner is a man whose life story is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of our community. A father of four, Justin has faced unimaginable heartache—from the loss of his son and niece to the tragic overdose of the mother of one of his children. Yet, through it all, he continues to move forward, driven by his commitment to his family and his desire to give back to the very community that helped him in his darkest times. This is the same community that gave him a few kicks while he was down.
His journey is not without its challenges. From battling bipolar disorder in his youth to overcoming grief and loss, Justin has faced obstacles that would have stopped many in their tracks. But with the love of his grandfather, the strength of his community, and an unwavering will, he’s carved out a life filled with purpose. As a landscaper, Justin has found joy in helping others, particularly the elderly, make their yards beautiful without breaking the bank. And despite the hardships, he remains dedicated to making the world a better place, particularly for the next generation.
In his own words, ‘Be the best you can be and don’t worry about what others think of you.’ It’s this spirit of honesty, loyalty, and respect that defines Justin, and it’s how he hopes to be remembered. We celebrate a man who has endured much, yet continues to give and inspire—reminding us all of the power of community and the strength hidden within ourselves to keep moving forward. Thank you, Justin, for sharing your story.” 💙
Did you like learning about someone in our community? Nominate the next person we should feature similarly by sending an e-mail to
