J.R. Jesse Radford Henley, Jr.

J. R. (Jesse Radford) Henley passed away peacefully, Friday, February 26, 2021 at his home after a 2 year battle with cancer. He was 77. J. R. was born December 12, 1943, in Birmingham, Alabama. Soon after, his family moved to Saraland, Alabama where he grew up.

He graduated from Satsuma High School and then began his work career. J. R. retired from International Paper Company in 1996 where he was employed for 28 years.

J. R. is survived by his wife, Anne Elizabeth Poche’ Henley; his son, Bryan “Keith” Henley (Marie) Chunchula, Alabama; step-son, Andrew “Michael” Hawkins (Madelaine) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; sister, Nancy Henley Merritt, Axis, Alabama; son- in-law, Brian Baxter, Huntsville, Alabama; nephew David Windle (Bernadette) Axis, Alabama; great nephew, Christopher Windle (Katie), Huntsville, Alabama; other nieces and nephews; 5 step grandchildren and 2 great step grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Radford Henley, Sr. and Jessie Leora Cleckler Henley; his brother- in- law, Henry Merritt and step daughter, Jennifer Claire Hawkins Baxter.

Other than loving God, his family and friends, J. R. loved waterskiing. It was his passion sport. He began skiing on the Creek in Satsuma, and was part of the Aqua Nuts Ski Club. His dream was to build his own 3 event waterski lake and community. He pursued his dream, and many years later, after much sacrifice, dedication and hard work, Ski Chaste Lake hosted its first tournament in 1990. The lake, its community and tournaments continue to flourish to this day. He certainly accomplished his dream. Ski Chaste is a beautiful, serene piece of Heaven on earth.

He was a pioneer in water skiing in Alabama, and will be remembered for his “behind the scenes” work in promoting the sport. He was a tireless worker who made it possible for others to learn, compete and enjoy the sport. For his accomplishments, he was inducted into the Alabama Waterski Federation in 2016. He held ratings of Senior Driver and National Safety Director.

He loved being around family and friends, helping others in any way possible, and joining in “pickin and grinning” on the lake.

J. R. was an active member of St. Agatha Catholic Church in Bay Minette and the Knights of Columbus Council 11554 at St. Agatha.

J. R. loved Jesus Christ, and lived life as a kind and helpful Christian. As a dear friend stated, he was a man among men, skier among skiers, friend among friends.

Funeral services will be held at St. Agatha Catholic Church (1001 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette, AL 36507) on Wednesday, March 3, 2021, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m.; Rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Agatha Catholic Church, 1001 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette, AL 36507, or the Alabama Waterski Federation, 10715 Ski Chaste Lane, Axis, AL 36505.