The name Heavenly has its roots in the English language, originating from the word "heaven," which refers to the celestial realm or the abode of God and angels. This name gained popularity during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, particularly among Puritan families in England and later in colonial America.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Heavenly can be found in the 1619 baptismal records of St. Mary's Church in Taunton, Somerset, England, where a girl named Heavenly Browne was baptized. This unusual name choice reflected the Puritan belief in naming children with virtuous or religious names.

In the 17th century, the name Heavenly appeared in several Puritan texts, including sermons and theological writings. For instance, the Puritan minister Thomas Shepard, in his 1642 work "The Sincere Convert," used the term "heavenly" to describe the spiritual state of those who have accepted Christ.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Heavenly was Heavenly Hughes (1681-1753), a Quaker preacher from Pennsylvania. She was known for her fervent religious beliefs and her travels throughout the American colonies to spread the Quaker message.

Another historical figure named Heavenly was Heavenly Broughton (1726-1801), an English actress and playwright who was popular in the 18th century. Despite her unconventional first name, she achieved success on the London stage and wrote several plays.

In the 19th century, Heavenly Hicks (1828-1899) was a prominent American abolitionist and women's rights activist. She was born into slavery in Maryland but later escaped and became a vocal advocate for the abolition of slavery and women's suffrage.

Heavenly Ornette (1864-1941) was a notable figure in the early 20th century as one of the first female African American lawyers in the United States. She practiced law in Washington, D.C., and was known for her work in defending civil rights cases.

Another individual with the name Heavenly was Heavenly Quintanilla (1913-2007), a Mexican-American artist and activist. She used her art to depict the struggles and cultural heritage of the Chicano community, and her works are found in various museums and collections.

While the name Heavenly was more commonly used in the past, particularly among religious or spiritual communities, it remains an uncommon but intriguing choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.