James H Henry

On Saturday April 18, 2020 James “Jim” Harold Henry, age 95 passed away peacefully at his home. He was born May 8, 1924, in West Palm Beach, FL to John Quincy Henry and Lorena H. Roberts Henry. He graduated from Pahokee High School, and served as a Chief Petty Officer in the United States Navy during WWII.

Jim started his first construction/development company with his father, J.Q. Henry, and his success led to forming numerous development companies of his own. His career in construction led to a passion for agriculture. In his later years, Jim assisted in the development/patent of the Accelerator Growing System and he founded Butterfly’s Are Free Nursery & Hold’ Em, Inc.

Jim’s Professional Associations included the Florida Agricultural Council, the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades, and FNGLA (Florida Certified Landscape Contractor #23). He was a charter member of Mayacoo Lakes Country Club, and a parishioner of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

Jim had a deep love for growing things. He used his green thumb for everything from growing beans in his garden, to growing pond apple trees used for restoring the islands on Lake Okeechobee. He loved golfing, fishing, and being on his Bobcat. In fact, it was said by many that he could make it dance! His love of life drew people to him, and his compassionate spirit made him unforgettable. Jim’s kind and loving soul will be greatly missed.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Elona; brother Joe Henry (Margaret); son James “Sune” W. Henry; daughters Sharon Milton (Tom) and Sarah Wickers (Clinton). Grandchildren Marina Henry-Arpe, Lindsay Schocke (Matthew), Katie Segars (Michael), and Jonathan Milton (Susan); five great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Jim is preceded in death by his sisters Jacqueline Wells, and Helen Schirmer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. George’s Center Inc. PO Box 10584, Rivera Beach, FL 33419; or the National Honor Flight Network; or Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, WPB. Due to the global health crisis, a memorial service with military honors will be scheduled at a later date, for family and friends to celebrate and honor Jim’s life.