Willis A Henry, Sr.

Willis Alonzo Henry was born on October 21, 1947, in Omaha, Nebraska, and peacefully departed this life on April 16, 2026, following a long illness. Willis graduated from Central High School and later pursued college coursework in accounting, reflecting his strong desire to continue learning and growing. In 1970, he married Patricia Elaine Grant, and together they welcomed three children. Though the marriage later ended in divorce, family remained an important and central part of his life. In his younger years, Willis faced his share of challenges, but he ultimately turned his life around and built a meaningful and fulfilling career with the railroad. Beginning in field work, he worked his way up to become a conductor, traveling between Baltimore and Washington, DC. Willis truly loved working on the railroad and was known for his warm personality and his ability to connect with others. He retired in 2010 after many dedicated years of service. Outside of work, Willis found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a deep love for movies and could always recommend a good film best enjoyed, in his opinion, with popcorn and plenty of butter. In his earlier years, he enjoyed playing chess, appreciating both the strategy and the camaraderie it brought. He also had a deep love for dogs and often rescued them, ensuring there was always a beloved pet in the home while his children were growing up. While he was not one to be the life of the party, he valued being present, and wherever he went, he always seemed to know someone. Willis accepted Christ in 1976 at Harvester Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a Treasurer, Deacon, and Sunday School Teacher for many years. Later, he joined New Psalmist Baptist Church, where he remained active in several ministries. He served as a member of the Honor Guard, participated in outreach efforts, attended men’s Bible study, and committed himself to discipleship classes reflecting his strong faith and dedication to serving others. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willis Lee and Alwilda Henry; his brothers, Joel Bernard Henry, Sr. and Richard Henry; his great-niece, Jaleah Ross; and his sons-in-law, Kevin Parks and Yoeun Yut. Willis leaves to cherish his memory his loving children: daughters, DeVonne Parks and Cassandra Yut; and his son, Willis A. Henry, Jr. He also leaves his beloved dog, Marley; his brother, Lawrence Henry; and his sister, Daisy Henry. He is further survived by his cherished granddaughters, Nya Henry-Wilson, Se’nah Yut, Maleas Yut, and Jennin Yut; as well as his nieces and nephew: Sarina Coles (Payton Mosala), Monet Ravenell, Jalonda Henry, Jonetta Henry (Steven Ross III), and Joel Bernard Henry, Jr. (LaTisha Henry), Jade, Trinity, and Legacy Henry.

Tributes

Willis A Henry, Sr.

October 21, 1947 - April 16, 2026