Thomas Henley Obituary

Thomas J. Henley

March 1, 2025 -

Thomas J. Henley, age 89, left for his Heavenly home on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 after a period of declining health. Tom was born in Sullivan County, Tennessee on October 8, 1935. He was a son of the late James Cecil (J.C.) Henley and Hattie Mae Smith Henley. He grew up in the Orebank area of Kingsport, Tennessee. He graduated from Blountville High School in 1953. He obtained certification as an electrician, and began working at Eastman Chemical Company as an electrician. While working there, he met the love of his life, Mary "Ruth" Stevens. After being married a few years, they adopted a 19-month-old girl, who they named Sarah Katherine. They welcomed her into their home with hearts and arms wide open. Tom retired from Eastman Chemical Company in 1997. In his earlier years, he enjoyed bowling and bow hunting. In his later years, he enjoyed taking care of his grandson Philip and working outside around the home. He was a caring husband, father, and grandfather.

Tom was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Ruth Henley; parents, J.C. and Hattie Henley; brothers, James, Frank, Paul, and Joe Henley; and sisters, Leila Henley Weston, Irene Henley Johnson, and Lowanda Henley Moody. Those left to mourn the loss of Tom include his daughter Kathy Henley Birchfield (fiancé David Jones), grandson Philip Birchfield, and his brother Cecil Henley and wife Joyce.

A graveside service will be held at East Lawn Funeral Home, at the Garden of the Good Shepherd, on Monday, March 3rd, at 2:00 p.m. Those who wish to attend are asked to meet at 1:45 on the left side of the funeral home to line up.