Willis “Henry” Heath Jr.
Hall of Fame Inductee #378
Fairfax, VA, USA
Willis “Henry” Heath Jr. transformed the towing industry through innovation, leadership, and vision. In 1965, he founded Henry’s Wrecker Service in Northern Virginia, which grew into a respected and enduring business built on integrity and excellence. His insight into the industry’s potential led him to co-found and serve as the first president of the Virginia Association of Towing & Recovery Operators, creating a foundation that continues to benefit towing professionals more than 50 years later.
Heath was known for his inventive spirit, developing specialized towing tools such as the “Henry Hitch” and a bus tow bar that improved safety and efficiency. He was also one of the first operators to adopt Air Cushion Lift technology and invest in advanced towing equipment, setting new industry standards. Beyond business, he was a volunteer firefighter and community advocate who understood towing as an essential part of public safety. Though his life was cut short in 1982, his influence endures through the company he built, the innovations he introduced, and the professionalism he inspired in generations that followed.
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HALL OF FAME NOMINEE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Tow Equipment/Product Innovation
Innovation of a product sold in the marketplace that has helped move the industry forward. Candidate must have a minimum of 10 years of service to the industry.
Exemplary Dedication
Candidate must have 20 years running a towing business in an outstanding and exemplary manner, promoting a positive image of the towing industry and have positive relations with the community, i.e., performing services for the community about and beyond the services for hire. Limit: One inductee per year.
Industry Leadership
Leadership involved with an outstanding project that has had a dynamic and lasting effect on the towing industry. Candidate must have minimum 10 years service to the towing industry.
Professional Achievement
Creating a product or service of any kind that has had a significant and lasting effect on thousands of towing professionals. Candidate Must have a minimum of 10 years to the industry.