Michael Jamel Henry

Michael Jamel Henry was born to Helen Ann Henry and Theodore Mims on April 21, 1953, in Newhall, West Virginia. Alongside his brother Billy (now deceased) and two cousins, Creta and PeeWee, Michael was lovingly raised by his grandparents, William and Thelma Henry. At the same time, his mother worked in New York City. Following the passing of their grandmother, Michael and Creta moved to New York to live with their mother, Helen, and aunt, Mildred Henry. It was there that Michael spent his formative years and came into his own. He completed his education in New York and, after high school, enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving a two-year tour from 1971 to 1973. Michael later earned an Associate’s Degree in Business Management from Monroe College. In 1979, Michael married Shirldean Brown. Their union brought forth two beloved children: Jamel Henry (Marilyn) and L’Tisha Henry-Edwards (LyKeem). Michael was also a devoted grandfather to six grandchildren: Darius, Amy, Kyle, Jeramiah, Journie, and Lailani. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who cherished him deeply. Throughout his career, Michael wore many hats. He worked with the United States Postal Service for 20 years and later joined the NYC Department of Transportation, where he remained for 10 years until retiring in 2017. Michael was a proud and active community member, earning recognition for his service on the 137th Street Harlem Community Board—an honor he playfully joked about, yet quietly took pride in. Upon retirement, Michael returned to Squire, West Virginia, where he began investing in rental properties and giving back through church volunteer work. Ever the entrepreneur, he was affectionately known as the “Mayor” of his community, always dreaming, building, and uplifting those around him. Michael’s greatest joys were rooted in family. He adored his grandchildren and ensured he remained a consistent, loving presence in the lives of those he held dear. His warmth, loyalty, and spirited energy left a lasting mark on everyone he encountered. Michael’s light shone brightly; he had a rare gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, and special. We, his family, will forever honor his memory and celebrate the extraordinary life he lived. A Celebration of Life service for Michael Jamel Henry will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Hurst-Scott Funeral Chapel in Tazewell, Virginia, with Pastor Moore officiating. Prior to service, the Casey-Shortt VFW Post# 9640 will conduct military rites. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 PM until the time of the service. Hurst-Scott Funeral Home in Tazewell, Virginia, is in charge of services, and those wishing to express sympathy online may do so at www.hurstscottfuneralhomes.com

Michael Jamel Henry

April 21, 1953 - April 19, 2025