James Henry

James D. "Jim" Henry, age 92, passed away on June 17, 2017, in Houston, Texas. He was born on December 8, 1924, in Hoxie, Arkansas. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Nold Henry. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Gutierrez Henry. He leaves his daughter, Cecelia Railey and husband Michael; granddaughter, Marie Campbell; grandson, Scott Railey and wife Lisa; great-grandchildren, Hudson and Lauren Railey; step-children Rachel Hefley, John Zapata, Margie Zapata, and Monica Benavedes; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim Henry was "one of a kind." At age 17, he made up his mind to serve his country in World War II. He convinced his mother to sign for him so he could join the U.S. Navy where he served in the Pacific Front as a gunner's mate. Upon leaving the Navy he began working in the meat industry as a meat cutter. Shortly thereafter, he began selling supplies and equipment, and was also an expert in designing meat processing facilities and establishments. In 1963, he founded Jim Henry Enterprises, Inc., bringing small equipment into his shop to repair. The business eventually grew into a one-stop shop specializing in supplies, packaging and equipment. Jim never met a stranger with many of his customers becoming his lifelong friends. The proudest moment of his career was his induction into the Southwest Meat Association Hall of Honor in July 2016 for his accomplishments in the meat industry. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family and friends. He loved having visitors and making them feel right at home. Donations in his memory may be made to Silverado Hospice, 13810 Champion Forest Suite 150 Houston, TX 77069 or to the charity of your choice. A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM July 8, 2017 at Smith Funeral Home, 128 E. 5th St., Flatonia, TX 78941. 361-865-3311 www.SmithFuneralHomeFlatonia.com
Memorial Service Saturday, July 08, 2017