John R. Henry Obituary

John Henry passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family at

Visiting Nurse Hospice. He lived nearly 98 remarkable years filled with love, laughter, faith,

baseball, music and cats.

John was born on March 31, 1928, the eldest son of Hilda Johnson and John Henry. He and his

brother Gilbert were lovingly raised by their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Kilby, whose home

provided the foundation for the warmth and generosity that defined his life. John shared a

particularly close bond with his grandmother, who adored him.

After graduating from Richmond Hill High School, John proudly served his country during the

Korean War. Following his honorable discharge from the United States Army, he attended New

York University. While listening to the World Series on the radio in the student cafeteria, he met

the love of his life, Wardean Nichols. John, a devoted Brooklyn Dodgers fan, fell head over heels

for Wardean, a loyal New York Yankees supporter. Through charm, charisma, and a spirited

defense of the National League, he eventually convinced her to join Team Dodgers. They

married on July 28, 1949, beginning a partnership that lasted 73 years.

Although raised a Baptist, John became a Methodist after marrying Wardean. Since 1960, he was

an active member of Huntington Cold Spring Harbor United Methodist Church. As a longtime

usher, and for many years head of the Usher Board, he welcomed everyone who walked through

the doors with the warmth and friendliness that came naturally to him.

John’s working life included several careers. He began as a skilled draughtsman, then served

with the Beach Patrol, and later built a respected career with the New York State Police as a

State Trooper. After retiring from law enforcement, he worked with the Urban League on

workforce development, helping young African Americans gain employment opportunities and

professional exposure—work he found deeply rewarding.

Baseball was a lifelong passion. When the New York Mets were founded in 1962, John became

one of their most enthusiastic fans. For over two decades, he and his family held season tickets at

Shea Stadium and later Citi Field, becoming such familiar faces that the stadium staff knew them

by name.

John was a devoted and proud supporter of the Huntington Blue Devils, rarely missing an

opportunity to cheer them on. He could always be found in his special seat—whether in the press

box for football games or on the bleachers during basketball season. He took immense pride in

supporting his son as he coached softball, faithfully standing behind the dugout, offering

encouragement, and celebrating every success. His presence at every game was a constant source

of support and pride for his son and his Blue Devil family.

He had a deep love for music, especially jazz. Whenever you stepped into his home, you were

greeted by the smooth sounds of a jazz soundtrack playing softly in the background—a reflection

of the warmth and soul that defined him. His passion for music was something he proudly passed

on to his son Ward, who developed his own love for blues music and shares his talent as a

drummer. John was one of his son’s greatest supporters, beaming with pride each time he heard

Ward behind the drums, celebrating not only the music but the joy it brought to his son’s life.

John also had a special love for cats. Smokey, Tiger, Flash, Buzzy, and Callie were his cherished

indoor companions, but many neighborhood cats also benefited from his generosity. Well into

his 90s, he could often be found early each morning reliably delivering breakfast to his feline fan

club. Though proudly a “cat man,” two dogs—both named Sandy—managed to win his heart.

John Henry lived a life marked by service, loyalty, humor, and kindness. He leaves behind a

legacy of love and countless memories that will continue to be shared for generations.

He was cherished by his late wife Wardean; two sons, Stephen Henry (Shelley) and Ward Henry;

four grandchildren, Charles Williams (Amber), Brittany Ross (Brian), Taylor Henry (Haley), and

Shawn Williams; five great-grandchildren, Kaysin Williams, CJ Williams, Cayden Williams,

Shea Ross, and Nolan Ross; his brother, Gilbert Henry (Olga); sister-in-law Sioux Nichols

Taylor(Abe); nieces, Pauline Henry, Valerie Henry, and Kay Taylor Hightower (Stephen);

nephew, Douglas Richard Henry; cousin Dorothea Mills; his “surrogate daughter,” Stacy Fagan

(Jon); and a host of cousins, extended chosen family, and friends.