Jerry Henry

Jerry Wayne Henry, born December 14, 1935, in New Castle, Indiana, to Lowell and Mary Etta (McDaniel) Henry, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Fondly known as “Hank,” “Dad Jerry,” or simply “Coach” by those closest to him, Jerry was a proud 1955 graduate of New Castle High School.

His early life took him from the Jersey Shore—where he worked as a carpenter—back to his hometown before joining the U.S. Army. Stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii, Jerry served as a medic, though his children often joked that his 18-month “vacation” was more defined by his athletic talents. He anchored the offensive line as the center of his football team and spent his free time playing beach volleyball.

Upon returning stateside, Jerry launched his career in construction as a union carpenter, eventually rising through the ranks as a foreman and superintendent/project manager.

During these early years, he met the love of his life, fellow New Castle Trojan, Gerry Louise Bowser. Jerry and Gerry were married on February 10, 1962, and remained devoted to one another through 63 years of marriage. They now rest together, following Gerry’s passing on April 2, 2025.

Jerry’s career included time with George Bahr Construction, ownership of his own company—Jerry Henry Construction—and later work with Smock-Fansler Construction, where he retired as a respected superintendent and project manager. He was a long-standing member of Central Midwest Carpenters Local 301.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jack, and infant brother John.
Jerry leaves behind a loving family: Children: Gregg (Heidi), Jennifer (Kevin), and Tracy. Grandchildren: Todd (Cassidy) Elliott, Katie Pence, and Allie (Josh) Boles. Great-grandchildren: Graham, Mila, and Sodeska. Sister: Joyce (Stan) McClimon. Sisters-in-law: Donna (John) Flora, Phyllis Keeler, and Jackie Miller.
Affectionately known by many as “Uncle Hanky Honey,” Jerry is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

A passionate supporter of youth athletics, Jerry coached at multiple levels of Little League baseball and youth football.

Through Jerry Henry Construction, he mentored many young men, leaving a lasting impact on their lives and careers.

A lifelong Cincinnati Reds fan—especially of Pete Rose and the Big Red Machine—Jerry remained active in his later years, enjoying golf and keeping close ties with childhood friends, former teammates, military buddies, coworkers, and generations of athletes and builders he mentored.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Hartley-Dunnichay Funeral Home, 209 West Jackson Street, Cicero, Indiana.Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 1:00 p.m.

We invite all who knew and loved Jerry to share their stories, memories, and photos on his memorial page, helping us keep his funny, talented, loyal, and witty spirit alive.