Elmer F Henry

Elmer Francis Henry, 77, of Independence, MO passed away Tuesday, December 1, 2015. Funeral Mass 10am Sat., Dec. 5, 2015 at Nativity of Mary Catholic Church, 10021 E. 36th Terr., Independence, MO. Visitation will be Fri., Dec. 4th from 6 to 8pm with Rosary recited at 6pm at Nativity Church.

Elmer was born in Seneca, Kansas on Jan., 29th 1938 to Bernard and Rachel (Waller) Henry. He grew up on a farm and attended Sts. Peter and Paul grade and high school. He was active in FFA, 4H, and played football in high school. He received a full scholarship to St. Benedict’s College in Atchison, KS where he earned the nickname “Staunch”. He served 2 years in the Army Reserves and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus while in Seneca. He met his wife Rita while on a trip to Kansas City to attend a St. Benedict/Rockhurst Basketball game. They were married in 1961 and celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary in October on a trip to Cobo San Lucas, Mexico. Elmer worked 29 years for Marion Laboratories and retired in 1991. From then on he has been active in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He lived and raised his family in Independence, MO and was a member of Nativity of Mary Catholic Church. Elmer spent many years as a speaker and counselor for “The Right to Life” program. He enjoyed being part of Nativity’s S.P.R.E.D. program.

He leaves behind his wife Rita, his children Ann (Brian) Thomason, Rachel (Rob) Redmond, Jeanne (Andy) Hanch, Rose Johnson, Bill Henry(Neysa); 13 grandchildren, Danny, Maggie and Michael Thomason, Anna and Robby Redmond, Rita Rose and Rebecca Hanch, Wade, Brock, Cale and Luke Johnson, Isabel and Desmond Henry; his sisters, Teresa (Leo) Meyer, Grace Buessing, Gladys (LeRoy) Deters; his brothers, Dan (Karen) Henry, Ron (Geriann) Henry, Dave (Mary) Henry, Mark (Bev) Henry, Ed (Sally) Henry and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Elmer was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Leonard, John and Harry (Hank) Henry; his son, Matthew; his son-in-law, Kenny Johnson.

Elmer’s death will leave a void in the hearts of all who knew him. He had a gift of touching the lives of everyone. His contagious smile and unconditional love made everyone feel special. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Nativity of Mary Catholic Church. Condolences to www.mcgilleysheil.com. Arr: McGilley & Sheil Funeral Home 816-353-6555.