Laurence Roy Henry

Laurence was born to Roy and Nina Henry on August 8, 1927 in Chelsea, Oklahoma and passed away January 20, 2015 in Bakersfield, California. Dad grew up in Chelsea, a wonderful, small town. He had many passions in life. First and foremost was his dedication and love for his family, not just his wife and children, but for his siblings Bill, Sherma and Wally.

He met Ruth Chastain at a Halloween party and it was love at first sight. As a father, he was an example of greatness. He was his children's guide, providing for them through his own example how to live life with strength, integrity and honor. Right out of high school, he joined the Navy and was in boot camp when WWII ended. He elected to serve his two years when given the option to leave the service.

As an adult, he first starting working as a Pontiac mechanic, but was given an opportunity to become a welder, and it quickly became his passion. His occupation took him to different towns and states, eventually ending up in Bakersfield. He was hired by Oilfield Construction and eventually was elected as Business Agent for Local 460.

He retired in 1985 and started making wall and desk sculptures with his welding talents. He was a Past Master of Mojave Masonic Lodge and received his 50 year membership pin a few years ago. He became an avid gardener - his tomatoes and chilies were legendary!

Ruth passed away in 2005; Dad never fully recovered from this loss. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister and loving wife, Ruth. Left to treasure his memory are his daughters, Sarah (Jeff) Tierce and Laura Henry, grandchildren, Jennifer and Emily Tierce, Eric (Michele) Stephens and Trey Cox, great granddaughters Isla and Skye Stephens. He cherished his best friends, Larry Ybanez (who preceded him in death), and Danny Nunez, whom he thought of as family.

We would like to thank Dr. Larry Yokoyama for his wonderful care of our dad and Kim, Marissa, Chris and Dolores from Optimal Hospice for their tender care and concern during his final days.

Family and friends are invited to services and military grave side commitment at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 2015 at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield. Doors will be open 9-10 a.m. for viewing.