Bill Joe Henry

Bill Joe Henry, age 83, of Port Arthur, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. He was born on December 20, 1942, in Longview, TX to William and Clara Patty Henry.

Born with a generous heart, Bill shared freely, offering guidance or simply showing up for the people he loved. In 1973, Bill attended Scarritt College for Christian Workers, where he studied to become a pastoral counselor. His faith was never something he wore loudly; instead, it was part of the way he treated others, with patience, kindness, and a quiet strength that made people feel safe in his presence. A proud veteran, he served in the United States Air Force. Bill’s life took him across the country, including a chapter in Seattle, where he worked for Boeing. While in the Pacific Northwest, he pursued another passion: the outdoors. He studied forestry at Alaska Pacific University, earning his bachelor’s degree and deepening his appreciation for nature. Fishing was Bill’s greatest joy. If the sun was up, or even if it wasn’t, there was a good chance he was on the water or thinking about being on the water. Bill’s marriage blessed him with his son, Richard, who remained one of his greatest blessings. Family was always close by, not just in distance but in spirit. Bill was a man of routines and habits, but none more important than the time he devoted to the people he loved. To his nieces and nephews, he was “Uncle Bill”, a steady presence, a protector, and a source of endless affection. He watched over them with the same devotion he gave to everything he cared about. A proud and enthusiastic Port Neches–Groves sports fan, Bill followed every football season. He was loyal to the core. Above all, Bill was a Christian whose faith guided his steps. He lived with humility, gratitude, and a deep sense of purpose. His legacy is one of love, constancy, and quiet devotion; a life lived not for recognition, but for the people and passions that brought him joy. Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his influence lives on in the memories he created, the family he cherished, and the countless lives he touched.

Left to cherish his memory is his son, Richard Henry and wife, Brooke; grandchildren, Nick, Cody, and Ally Henry, Lexi Harmon, and Bryce Fitzgerald; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and loved ones.

Preceding Bill in death are his parents; brothers, Randy Henry and David Henry; and sister, Sharon Shreve. 

Bill's life honoring memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, beginning at 3:30 p.m., at Lumberton Family Funeral Home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bill Joe Henry, please visit our floral store.