Striker Junior Hoilett opened the scoring with a 58th-minute volley to record his third goal in two games before a late Yakubu header sealed back-to-back wins for Rovers, who moved six points clear of the drop zone.
However, they improved after the break and Heskey's header ensured Villa continued their record of scoring in every game since their 2-0 defeat to Wigan on the opening day of the season.