Lucious Antonio Henry Sr.

The world welcomed a beacon of creativity and resilience, when Lucious Antonio Henry, Sr. made his entrance on Monday, January 24, 1938, at Jefferson Davis Hospital in Houston, Texas to the late George Henry, Sr and Floradine Taylor Henry. He, along with his twin, the late Rufus Anthony Henry who died as an infant were the third and fourth of eight children, which included the late Ethel Mae Hinga, the late George Henry, Jr., Cleophus L. Henry, Harold J. Henry, Gregory O. Henry, and the late Daryl K. Henry. Lucious’ generation was known as the “Silent Generation”, but that was not the case for his incredible journey as he carved a remarkable path filled with vitality and passion.

Lucious embraced his faith from a young age, finding solace and inspiration in the heart of Fifth Ward at the historical Mount Vernon United Methodist Church under the guidance of Pastor W. H. Hightower. He was a graduate of “The Mighty Wildcats", Phyllis Wheatley High School in 1951 where he exceled as a student.

When Lucious was twelve years old, he was in the hospital amidst a battle with pneumonia. While there, his artistic gift was born. Out of boredom he asked his brother, Harold to bring scrap coat hanger wire to sculpt his first piece using only his hands and a simple plier while sitting in his hospital bed to create an anatomically correct skeleton. This marked the genesis of his illustrious career as a wire sculptor, creating hundreds of pieces of art, from boats to airplanes that were on display in the Museum of Fine Arts of Houston, and other art gallery shows across town. His intricate depictions of the human form earned him admiration and commissions from medical professionals seeking to capture the essence of anatomy through art.

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Lucious had many other interests that included the human body and how it worked, he was an avid body builder, where he and his friends conducted daily workout sessions in the neighborhood. He pursued various occupations, from serving as a porter at Union Pacific Railroad to mastering the craft of automotive mechanics and welding, creating masterpiece barbecue pits that were renowned for their craftsmanship, rivaling the ones at Home Depot.

In the realm of entrepreneurship, Lucious and his brother, Harold blazed trails as proprietors of one of Houston's first Black-owned Texaco Gas Stations in the 1960s. Their entrepreneurial spirit thrived as they established Lockwood Automotive Mechanic Shop in 1970, serving a wide clientele with integrity and expertise.

Though lesser-known, Lucious' allure extended beyond the realm of art and athleticism. A modeling agent recognized his potential while he perused the aisles of downtown Foley's Department Store. Despite the allure of a burgeoning career in Los Angeles, California, his mother's prudent wisdom tempered his youthful ambition, shielding him from premature exposure to the glitz and glamor of the entertainment industry.

Lucious was married twice, first to the late Michael Kaye Henry and in that union, his first son was born. Later, he met the love of his life, Joyce Marie “nee” Conway, who would eventually become Mrs. Joyce Marie Henry in 1969. Together, they had seven children (three deceased, Junior, Sonja, and Lanie Henry) who he loved deeply.

Though fate dealt him a challenging hand with a near-fatal car accident that left him with enduring leg injuries, Lucious' indomitable spirit remained unbroken. He faced adversity with grace and resilience, never allowing pain to overshadow his zest for life. His warm dimpled smile and open-hearted demeanor endeared him to all who crossed his path, irrespective of background or creed.

In his cherished later years, Lucious Antonio Henry, Sr. embraced life's simple pleasures with unmatched enthusiasm. Venturing across the expansive landscapes of Texas, he embarked on leisurely excursions, exploring new horizons alongside his steadfast companion and confidant, his "ride or die" brother, Harold. Together, they traversed the highways and byways, reveling in the beauty of the Lone Star State.

Amidst these adventures, Lucious found solace and joy in the company of his beloved niece, Jennifer. With her unwavering care and infectious humor, she ensured that he never missed a doctor's appointment, bringing laughter and light to his days with her endearing corniness and countless selfies.

Nourishing his culinary passions, Lucious delighted in frequenting his favorite eateries, Cleburne's Cafeteria and Texas Long Horn, where he savored the flavors of comfort and company alongside his precious children, Flora, Margo, and his namesake, Lucious. Whether indulging in sumptuous meals or gathering for impromptu “fish frys” at his sons’ Claire and George’s house, every moment shared was infused with warmth and camaraderie.

True to his nurturing spirit, Lucious reveled in the milestones of his grandchildren, eagerly attending their graduations and family gatherings, where he basked in the joy of familial bonds strengthened over generations. A connoisseur of nostalgia, he found delight in leisurely conversations over coffee, reminiscing about the "good ole' days" with his loyal crew, whose camaraderie spanned decades.

In every cherished moment, Lucious embodied the essence of love, laughter, and lasting connections. His legacy of genuine warmth and unwavering devotion to family and friends will forever resonate, a testament to a life lived with boundless love and indomitable spirit.

Lucious Antonio Henry, Sr. leaves behind a legacy of greatness and service, a testament to his multifaceted talents and boundless generosity. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Joyce Marie Henry, children; James Claire Henry (the late Donna), Flora Henry-Smith (Gary), George Henry, IV (Roxanne), Margo Young (Anthony), and Lucious Henry, Jr. (Chi’Nese). He also leaves Louisette Joseph, Felicia Stewart (Kevin), Laquita Cyprian, Desural Jackson (Kewanda), and Lucious Charles Jackson. His three remaining siblings, Elder Cleophus (Shirley), Harold, and Gregory (Maria), brothers-in-laws, Isaac Conway (Faye), Benny Conway (Gwen) sister-laws, Major Lee Henry, Betty Gatterson, and a host of grandchildren, one great-grandchild, extended family, and a multitude of beloved friends whose lives he enriched with his presence.

We can all agree that Lucious Antonio Henry, Sr. truly embodies the true definition of a “Renaissance Man”, he was gifted to have many areas of talent and knowledge that surpassed a lifetime.