It is with great sorrow, we announce the passing of our dear Mom, Dora Jean Henry, who died peacefully at LMH on April 16, 2024, at the age of 92.
Mom was predeceased by her loving husband Ralph Henry, in 2006. Mom is survived by her four children, Ronald (Diane), Dale (Lori), Barry, Janet (Danny) five Grandchildren, seven Great Grandchildren and one Great Great Grandchild.
Mom was born in Winnipeg, MB on November 16, 1931. She began her life on a small farm in a large family with her siblings in Fannystelle, MB. In 1946, her family relocated to Maillardville, BC, where Mom worked in the family corner store. Times were tough, and it was through this hard work and minimal pay that she learned the value of money. Mom went on to work at Eaton’s Department Store. Mom enjoyed growing up in the city, New Westminster, where she met our Dad at a dance. They fell in love and married in 1950. In 1963, Dad purchased a 10-acre property in the Willoughby area of Langley. Together they built a new house and Mom adjusted to country life. She also learned to drive, so she was able to visit her family and friends in Maillardville.
Mom took great pride in raising her family. She loved, nurtured and provided for us with a large garden. She made home-baked bread, pies and many desserts. When Mom was not looking after all of us, she was known to swing a hammer, helping Dad sheet a roof of numerous houses that they built. She was always willing to lend a hand.
After her family was grown, Mom enjoyed traveling, as well as many cruises. One of her favourite trips was to Venice, Italy.
Mom loved music and dancing and did say her favorite live performance was the Jersey Boys , which she saw with her daughter Janet, when they visited London, England.
Mom was a very kind and giving person and extended her generosity by volunteering for over 10 years at the LMH Foundation thrift store, Penny Pinchers , where she was known as the “Christmas Lady” sorting the Christmas decorations. Mom so loved helping others!
In 2011 Mom sold her house in Langley and moved to new a townhouse in Cloverdale, where she made many friends. She enjoyed playing cards and bingo.
Mom’s biggest joy was spending time with family. She was young at heart and had the ability to connect with every generation. She was a great friend and listener to many. She loved her grandchildren, was the Matriarch of our family and will be forever held dear in our hearts!
There will be a Memorial Mass held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, located at 20676 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC, on Thursday, May 9th at 10:30 am. A Celebration of Life will follow in the adjoining hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Kidney Foundation .