Barry Kent Henry, 63, went peacefully to be with the Lord on January 16, 2022. Barry was born in Logansport, IN, but moved at age 6 to Lake City, Florida where he achieved Eagle Scout at a very young age (13). He attended Lake City High School where he met the love of his life and wife of 37 years, Bonnie Gerlach through her brother, Flip. Barry earned both his BS and MBA from the University of Florida and remained an avid Gator fan his entire life, attending most home games. A career in finance brought Barry to Jacksonville, where he excelled and most recently worked as TIAA bank’s Regulatory Reporting Director from 2009 faithfully until his death. But really, Barry was in the people business. He cared deeply for those he encountered in his life, be they work-colleagues, neighbors or church community… most became friends. In 1988, he joined Southside United Methodist Church. An active member in their Discovery class, Barry formed lifelong friendships and eventually lead their Sunday school class for 20 years. Barry hated to miss a Sunday and taught until his passing. An intelligent and creative tour de force, Barry was sought after and served on many boards, yet he equally prioritized mentoring others one on one. With characteristic unassuming charm, Barry infused every situation with fun. Known to break out in song or even an Elvis costume, he thrived in spreading joy to those he loved. Barry welcomed any opportunity to be at the beach, fish or golf, but mostly he enjoyed the relationships he built around his activities. His devotion to his wife and children, Mary Katherine and David saw no limit. With diligence and care, Barry lightened the load of anyone who called on him, but he delighted in doting on his family. A man of great faith, Barry considered it his privilege to share the Gospel of Jesus and lived his life with a servant’s heart. Barry poured out good news and hope right until the end of his fearless battle with cancer. The family wishes to express their utmost gratitude to Dr. Pete Pitocchi, whose twenty-year friendship and guidance through Barry’s cancer means the world to them. He is survived by his wife Bonnie; mother Marilyn Furnish; father Raymond Henry; daughter Mary Katherine; son David; brothers Mike (Sheri) and Kevin (Susan); brothers-in-law Philip Gerlach III (Robin); sister-in-law Betsy Johnson (Jim); nieces Elizabeth Gerlach, Kelli Henry; nephews Philip Gerlach IV, Christopher Henry, James Henry; cousin Kevin who was treasured like a brother; and a vast number of best friends. Funeral services will be held at 2 pm on January 22, 2022 at Southside United Methodist Church, Jacksonville with a reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in honor of Barry Henry to Southside United Methodist Church/ Wendy’s Love Fund, 3120 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18