Gary Daniel Henley

Gary D. Henley, born in Ironton, Missouri on December 21, 1948, to Daniel and Edna Henley, embodied a lifetime of remarkable achievements and impact on countless people. After his graduation from Arcadia Valley Highschool, he showcased his athletic prowess, earning a coveted spot with the St. Louis Cardinals minor league baseball team and being offered a golf scholarship to a local university. Gary's unwavering patriotism led him to serve his country with honor in the United States Airforce.

Following his dutiful service, Gary embarked on a path of entrepreneurial success, spearheading groundbreaking ventures in the field of healthcare technology. His ingenuity played a pivotal role in engineering, constructing, and promoting one of the earliest arthroscope mounted cameras, revolutionizing minimally invasive surgeries. The resounding triumph of his ventures culminated in an acquisition by one of the largest medical device manufacturers worldwide.

Over the next three decades, Gary remained a steadfast leader and innovator in the healthcare technology industry, serving as President or CEO of several prominent companies. However, his passions extended far beyond the professional sphere. He excelled as an accomplished chef, connoisseur of wine, avid hunter, skilled fisherman (including noodling), and champion scuba diver (earning two national titles in spearfishing). He loved the game of golf, and, as with most of his endeavors, was exceptionally good at it.

Above all, Gary cherished his role as a dedicated husband to Peggy Henley and a loving father and grandfather, affectionately known as "Pappy." His compassionate nature and generous spirit touched the lives of numerous organizations and countless individuals.

In November of 2022, Gary faced the challenging diagnosis of ALS. Despite the hardships, he valiantly fought for precious moments with his beloved family, finding solace in his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and the assurance that a heavenly home awaited him.

Gary was called to Heaven on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. Gary was predeceased by his mother, Edna Queen Henley and his father, Daniel Webster Henley. He is survived by his wife, Peggy A. Henley, son and daughter in law, Jerick and Katie Henley; step son Paul Garrett; granddaughters and their spouses, Riley and Elli Marlar, Cole and Isabelle Spradlin, Gabby Henley, and Maddox and Caroline Graham; his sister and brother in law, Bill and Nancy Fletcher; his sister and brother in law, Tom and Joyce Atley; as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins that were all valued in his life.

Pappy was an unwavering cheerleader for those he loved and he believed in us more than we believed in ourselves most of the time. His eternal optimism was contagious and inspiring. His gratitude for the blessings in his life was unwavering. The joy he brought those around him will be forever missed. His acceptance of Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior assures us that he resides in Heaven for eternity and joyfully awaits our arrival.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.