William Irvin "Bill" Henry, 85, of Canton, Georgia, after a courageous battle with cancer, was
received by his Heavenly Father on Father's Day, June 15, 2025. Born in Cumberland, Maryland,
Bill was the son of Ellwood and B. Dorothy Henry. He spent his early years in Massachusetts
before settling in Canton, Georgia, where he graduated from Cherokee High School in 1958.
Bill studied Textile Engineering at Southern Technical Institute and later earned a BS from
Columbus College. He began his textile career at Canton Cotton Mills and spent 45 years in the
industry, retiring in 2004 after executive roles at Johnston Industries. He was active in industry
leadership, including serving as President of the Alabama Textile Manufacturers Association and
receiving the title of Honorary Alabama Colonel. While he was a leader for many years, he was
more importantly a servant who impacted the lives of so many people along the way.
He also served six years in the Georgia Army National Guard, reaching the rank of Staff
Sergeant.
In 1961, Bill married Sandra Dunn, beginning a 63-year marriage rooted in faith. He supported
her ministry in the United Methodist Church and shared a love of travel, golf, and church
involvement. He was especially gratified through a life filled with family and service.
Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra; their children, Marilyn Carter (Jeff), William Michael
"Mike" Henry, and James "Jay" Henry (Sandra); and grandchildren Austin (Chandler), Daniel,
and Katie Anne Henry.
Visitation will be Saturday, June 21st from 11am to 12pm at Waleska United Methodist Church. A memorial service will follow at 12pm at the church with Rev. Brian Smith officiating. The Celebration of Life will be live streamed at https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=mEpKt0Tgdjw
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Riverview Cemetery, c/o Cliff Owen, Treasurer, 136 Breeze Hill Lane, Canton, GA. 30114, in his memory.
The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the Henry family.