James Henry Obituary

Fr. Henry was full of wit - you could always count on hearing the best stories & funniest jokes. Fr. Henry singing down the hallways of SJHS - smoking his pipe with his cheery disposition are etched in my high school memories.
But my fondest memory, dear to my heart, is Fr. Henry officiating my wedding 20 years ago. My husband who is not Catholic, wanted to honor my wish to be married at the church I attended with my Grandparents.
This was very important and sentimental for me - but difficult to get approved by the church. Fr. Henry wrote a letter which he hand-delivered to the LA Archdiocese with his blessing and request to marry us in the church.
Having someone as iconic, and let's face it, as cool as Fr. Henry to be the one to marry us was even more special than we could have imagined. We will never forget what an amazing person Fr. Henry was and still is to our family. Rest easy in paradise Papa Henry.
With Love, The Washington Family

I was lucky enough to enjoy Fr. Henry's teaching when he started at St. Joseph High School (1984/85, I believe?). He was a wonderful educator and I can still hear his delightful baritone Brooklyn accent. Whenever I see a reference to 'Romeo & Juliet,' I think of him as we covered this story extensively my senior year. Peace and happy memories to his family. Thank you, Fr. Henry!!!

My heart hurts knowing he is gone but I love knowing he is watching over us all. Thank you Papa Henry for all the laughs, wisdom, and being one of the greatest. You will forever be remembered and in our hearts!

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

I will always cherish his friendship as a colleague at Saint Joseph High School, Lakewood, CA.

I have such wonderful memories of Fr. Henry.
His wonderful sermons at St. Maria Goretti in Long Beach.
Very special memories of his Masses said on Mothers Day in the home of my dear friend Pina Mendoza. He was very close to her family and was there for many wonderful dinners and celebrations.
Everyone who knew him loved and admired him.
My husband in heaven I'm sure is now enjoying his wonderful stories.
He was a wonderful priest, man, friend.
God rest his beautiful soul

Our deepest sympathy and prayers, for all his family, at the passing of Father Henry. May Father Henry´s life long dedication, as a minister of our Lord, bring us all peace and greater love of our Divine Savior.