James William Henry, Sr. "Big Daddy"

On the morning of Thursday, October 18, 2018, James William Henry, Sr., aka “Big Daddy”, departed to be with the Lord at his residence in Marion.  A native and lifelong resident of McDowell County, James was born September 12, 1929 and was the son of the late Curtis and Mary Carson Henry. 

He was preceded in death by one brother, Edward Henry; one sister, Dorothy Kincaid; three grandchildren, Daquisha Henry, Jerrill Jackson and Nicholas Jones; and one son-in-law, Jeffrey Connelly. 

A member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, James, who had a great sense of humor, enjoyed fishing, hunting and his dogs.  His loving family loving will remember his quick wit, sense of humor, big heart and beautiful smile, not only to his family, but to the community. Always waving at strangers, he was always known for carrying dollar bills. 

James is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Elaine Henry; twelve children, Annie Jackson, Vera Toms, Zondra Y. Henry, James Henry, Jr., Debra Connelly (Bennett), Karen D. Henry, Crystal Henry, Terry Allen Henry (Pandoria), Andrea Connelly, Leslie H. Miller, Camille Elaine Henry and Amy H. Berry (Jermaine); one sister, Elsie Logan; twenty-five grandchildren; a host of great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and many friends.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 21, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Beam Funeral Service. 

A service to celebrate the life of James will be held on Monday, October 22, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at New Manna Baptist Church in Marion with Dr. Michael Smith officiating.  Interment will follow at McDowell Cemetery.

Those serving as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers are, Shawn Boyce,  Antawn Boyce, Daresse Henry,  Vernon Edmonds Jr., Calvin Washington, Bennett Connelly, Roy Jackson and Leonard Toms.  Those serving as flower girls are, Artura Boyce, Starr Henry, Sierra Connelly, Karman Henry, Chanda Henry, Tikira Henry, Tia Miller and Aubrey Borders.