William Terence “Hank” Henretta, Jr. passed away unexpectedly on May 17, 2024 at home in Greensboro. Hank was born October 21, 1949, in Kane, PA, to the late William Terence and Adelaide Smith Henretta. The family relocated to Statesville, NC, in the late 1950s with the family’s wooden toy business, Holgate Toys. A few years later they settled in Greensboro where Hank graduated from Grimsley Senior High School in 1969. He attended Wingate College for two years, and then graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill with a degree in Education in 1973.
In his last year at UNC, he met his late wife Caryn Shackelford. They were married in 1974, settled in Greensboro, and became members of Westminster Presbyterian Church. They had three beautiful daughters who were the light of his life. After the passing of Caryn, Hank married Sandra Parrish in 1985. They loved their time at home working in the yard together and caring for their beloved Shelties, Willie-T and Tanner. Hank retired from teaching at Page High School after 28 years of dedication to the Special Education program. He also enjoyed recounting stories of his years as a counselor at Camp Joy and working on the loading docks at Sears. Hank was a detailed handyman who loved a trip to Lowes. He had a passion for antiques, clocks, collecting Hess trucks, woodworking, history, politics, and his family. Hank never missed an opportunity for a good conversation and loved holding court with his sons-in-law, Sandy’s bridge club, neighbors, and most especially his grandchildren.
Hank was preceded in death by his first wife, Caryn, his parents, older brothers Smith and Peter as well as his older sister Susan. He is survived by his wife Sandy of 38 years; daughters and their spouses Megan and Chris Harris of Davidson, Jillian and Matt Angel of Greensboro, Lauren and Rob Shelton of Huntersville; grandchildren Will and Avery Harris, Madeline and Nathan Angel, Liam and Hayes Shelton; sisters and their spouses Antionette and Ken Conger of Statesville and Sarah and Albert Weaver of Raleigh; brother and his wife Andre and Linda Henretta of High Point, and many wonderful nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 2pm, Wednesday May 29th at Westminster Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends at a reception in the fellowship hall following the service.
Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home, N. Elm Street, Greensboro is assisting the Henretta Family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com
