Gerald K. Henry, Sr. of Spring Mills, died peacefully at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College on November 12, 2022. He was 85. Born February 28, 1937, in State College, Gerald was the youngest child of the late Roy B. and Roxie A. (Breon) Henry. On March 5, 1958, he married the love of his life and life partner of 64 years, Norma R. (Vonada) Henry who survives at home.
Also surviving are four daughters; Terry Benner (Vincent) of Aaronsburg, PA, Julia Henry of Snow Hill, MD, Alice Henry of Howard, PA, and Susan Poorman (Mahlon, Jr.) of Spring Mills, PA; two sons, Gerald K. Henry, Jr (Mark) of State College, PA and Randall Henry (Sheree) of Bellefonte, PA.
While his children were special to him, nothing compared to the love Gerald held for his grandchildren, Travis Benner, Tabitha Ripka, Trevor Benner, Jennifer Wasson, Mitchell Wasson, Robert Packer, Adam Packer, Shera Hebel, Mahlon Poorman III and Dustin Henry. In addition, Gerald is survived by twenty-one great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, and two sisters, Betty Zettle and Adeline Sweeley, both of Spring Mills. In addition to his parents, Gerald was preceded in death by his daughter, Deborah L. Henry, grandson Eric M. Henry, great granddaughter Madeline C. Henry and brothers Roy, Ronald and Richard Henry
Gerald attended the State College High School, class of 1958. He was employed as a forklift operator at the former Corning Glass Works where he was actively involved in the American Flint Glassworkers Union. While he was still able, he loved to hunt and talk about the big one that got away. Later in life, he found an appreciation for musical theatre and loved to attend performances at the Boal Barn Playhouse. Gerald found much comfort in mowing his lawn and enjoyed the annual Grange Fair (where he met his wife). He was an armchair politician and was especially pleased to have voted in the most recent election. Gerald loved the Christmas season with all the lights, trees and being with his family. He will be missed.
The entire family would like to thank the staff of Mount Nittany Medical Center for the gentle care they provided to my husband, and our father and pap during his most recent hospital stay. You all were a blessing to him and us.
A visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, November 17, 2022, from 9-11 am at the Steven R. Neff Funeral Home in Millheim, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am with Pastor Mike Covalt officiating. Gerald will be laid to rest in the Centre County Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Gerald may be given to Pets Come First, 2451 General Potter Hwy, Centre Hall PA 16828.
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