Gilbert Armstrong Henry, warmly known as “Gil”, was born on August 25, 1929 at Harlem Hospital in New York City to Hilda Gertrude Johnson and John Richard Henry. He attended PS 116, Shimer Junior High School and Newtown High School where he majored in music. Gil played the alto saxophone and clarinet and was an extremely talented musician. Upon graduation, Gil joined the military, army branch, where he served as a communications operator during the Korean War. (1950-1953).
Following his military service, Gil attended the police academy in order to begin his career in law enforcement. He served briefly on the Washington, D.C. police force before transferring and establishing his home at the New York Police Department. He served the community as a patrolman before becoming a major part of the auxiliary police department on the top floor of the 34th precinct where he established several lifelong friendships. Upon retiring from the NYPD, Gil moved to Coral Springs, Florida.
Still feeling the desire to serve the community, Gil joined the Broward County Sheriff’s Department where he developed specialized educational drug and safety programs for the staff and students for all Broward County schools (elementary, middle and high). He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate at Fort Lauderdale College on May, 1989.
Throughout his career, Gil maintained his love of jazz, German Shepherd dogs and tropical plants. His home in Coral Springs reflects each of those favorites in special ways. Many of his neighbors can attest Gil’s love for yard work and the beauty of his various gardens. His favorite expletives were “G****dammit” and “Jesus”! Gil loved social gatherings that included quality scotch or vodka. He occasionally took a sip of wine. He enjoyed eating liver and onions, corned beef and cabbage and let’s not forget his renowned special secret recipe for barbecue chicken. Gil never stopped learning and remained active on social media and Skype. He remained physically active to the very end. He is loved and cherished by many and will be truly missed. A one of kind, stand up guy.
Gil leaves to cherish fond memories of his life his beloved wife Olga Elaine, their children, Douglas Richard Henry, Mr. & Mrs. Antonio (Valerie Jean) Wiggins, Pauline Michele Henry, Robin Chapchuk (deceased), Mr. & Mrs. Tim Chapchuk, his brother and sister-in-law Mr. & Mrs. John Richard (Wardeen) Henry, his sister and brother-in-law Mr. & Mrs. Ivan (deceased)(Dorothea) Bertalli, grandchildren Mr. & Mrs. Andre (Psalm) Banks, Mr. Phillip Berry, Ms. Amina Jackson, Ms. Jamila Harris-Gibbs, Ms. Malika Harris, great-grandchildren Kania, Andre Jr., Kayden, Isaiah, Jaliq, Candace, Jayla, Jordynn, Jameia, Jasney, nephews Mr. & Mrs. Steve (Shelley) Henry, Mr. Ward Henry, niece Mr. & Mrs. Pounce (Adrienne) Nelson, grandnieces/nephews Mr. & Mrs. Brian (Brittany) Ross, Taylor Henry, Charles Williams, Shaun Williams as well as countless colleagues, friends and neighbors. Nephew/niece: Mr. & Mrs. Glen Urquhart, Ms. Pamela Urquhart, Mr. & Mrs. Milton (deceased) Edwards, Mr. Keith Edwards.
A visitation for Gilbert will be held Monday, January 28, 2019 from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home South, 2401 Southwest 64th Avenue, Davie, Florida 33317. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, January 29, 2019 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 2401 Southwest 64th Avenue, Davie, Florida 33317. A committal service will occur Tuesday, January 29, 2019 from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM, 2401 Southwest 64th Avenue, Davie, Florida 33317.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestlawnsouth.com for the Henry family.
