Henry DeVries Jr.

Henry DeVries, Jr., 74, of Jacksonville, FL, and formerly of Grosse Pointe, MI and Des Plaines, IL, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025. Born on April 25, 1950, in Patterson, NJ, to Henry DeVries, Sr., and Jeanette Greydanus DeVries, Henry lived a life defined by faith, family, generosity, and an unyielding dedication to others. His warm heart, kind spirit, and enduring love for his wife, children, and grandchildren leave a legacy of inspiration and joy.

Henry shared an extraordinary love story with his wife of 51 years, Sheryl, who passed away just a few months prior. Born five days apart, they met at Trinity University, where their journey began. The couple’s story famously started on the ice, when Sheryl, a championship speed skater, challenged Henry to a race. Despite his soccer captaincy, Henry quickly discovered he was no match for her on skates, a memory that became emblematic of their playful and loving partnership. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and unwavering commitment to family.

Henry attended Trinity University, where he captained the soccer team, leading with dedication and camaraderie. His teammates became lifelong friends, and he cherished those relationships throughout his life. After earning his undergraduate degree, Henry went on to achieve a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), setting the foundation for an impactful career in healthcare leadership.

Henry’s professional journey began at ServiceMaster, where he honed his skills in management and service. He later became the CEO of Bon Secours Hospital in Grosse Pointe, MI, and rose to Regional President of Bon Secours’ Mid-Atlantic territory. His visionary leadership extended beyond hospitals; Henry started a home healthcare service and managed surgical centers, always driven by a desire to improve patient care and support his community. A man ahead of his time, he also partnered with his brothers George and John in launching an innovative veterinary lab service—a venture filled with more good memories than good fortune.

Henry was the third of four brothers: Raymond, John, and George. The bond between them was unshakable, forged through shared experiences and countless adventures—though it often meant Henry rolling up his sleeves to help. Whether it was driving a moving van full of George’s furniture from New York to Virginia, co-piloting Raymond’s 1959 Austin-Healey Sprite from Santa Barbara to Chicago (and towing it when a wheel fell off), or teaming up with John and George on the ambitious but short-lived DeVries Veterinary Lab, Henry was always there with his humor and a helping hand. Despite living far apart, the brothers prioritized their time together, and their most recent reunion, just over a year ago in Chicago, was no exception. A weekend at a lake house brought plenty of laughter, storytelling, and Henry’s trademark quirky humor. His brothers will always treasure those memories, carrying with them the warmth, wit, and joy he brought to every gathering.

Henry found great joy in boating, a passion sparked when he moved to Grosse Pointe. Although he didn’t initially own a boat, he trusted his instincts and put his name on the list for a slip, knowing he’d figure it out in time—and of course, he did. Whether captaining his boat on day trips or overnight adventures, Henry relished being at the helm, a role that reflected his natural inclination to lead and bring people together.

An avid sports enthusiast, Henry cheered passionately for the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and Detroit Lions. While his love for the Red Wings often brought celebration, his loyalty to the Tigers and Lions showcased his unwavering dedication—cheering them on through some of the most challenging seasons in MLB and NFL history. His family joked that his commitment to the Lions, in particular, was proof of his patience and eternal optimism.

Henry’s greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren, Elliot, Emma Grace, Miles, and Izzy. Whether attending their events, sharing stories, or laughing at their antics, his love for them was boundless. He also remained deeply devoted to his wife, Sheryl, their shared adventures, and their cherished time spent cruising, laughing, and creating lasting memories.

Henry is survived by his children, Peter (Jen) and Lisa (Andy); his grandchildren, Elliot, Emma Grace, Miles, and Izzy; his siblings, Nancy (Dan), George (Helen), Johnny (Susi), and Raymond (Charlotte); and a loving network of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Jeanette DeVries, and his beloved wife, Sheryl.

Henry’s family will remember him as a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a man whose generosity, faith, and love left an indelible mark on all who knew him. A memorial service will be announced in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a charity of your choice in Henry’s honor.

Henry DeVries, Jr.’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and service. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 27 at 10:30 a.m. at Redeemer Church in Ponte Vedra Beach.