Melvin "Chubby" Henry

Deacon Melvin Henry was born the second child to Grover and Ernestine Henry on August 18, 1960, in Winter Garden, Florida. He was a native of Winter Garden and graduated from West Orange High School in 1978. He also attended Kansas State University (Kansas), Big Bend Community College (Washington), and American Preparatory Institute (Texas). Immediately upon graduation, Melvin enlisted in the United States Army. He turned eighteen during Basic Training at Fort Knox Armor Training Center (Kentucky). He served three tours overseas and was stationed at Fort Hood (Texas), Fort Polk (Louisiana), and Fort Riley (Kansas). While stationed at Fort Riley, Sgt. Henry received orders to be sent overseas (with the “BIG RED ONE”) to serve in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Deacon Henry received several decorations and awards. They included: the Bronze Star Medal for participation in the Gulf War, Army Commendation Medal “TWO OAK LEAF CLUSTERS”, Army Achievement Medal “FIVE OAK LEAF CLUSTERS”, Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO), Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Southeast Asia Service Medal, Expert Marksmanship Badge/Rifle and Pistol, Driver and Mechanic Badge, Five Good Conduct Medals, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal. He also received several other training awards. After serving sixteen years in the military, in 1994, he was offered early retirement, making him one of the youngest retirees with the Department of Defense. He returned to Winter Garden and joined the ranks of civilian life. Deacon Henry joined Bethlehem during his childhood and laboured in the Master’s vineyard for over fifty (50) years. He served as Vice-chairman of the Deacon and Trustee Ministry, President of the Pastor’s Aide, Vice-President of the Golden Angels, Church Bus Driver, the Mass Choir, Bereavement Ministry, supporter of the Youth Department, Sound Technician, Male Chorus, and 2 time recipient of the F. E. W. Award (in honor of the late Reverend Frank Edward Wilder. He was actively involved in every phase of the church. Many are called, but few are chosen. He was also a lifetime member of the West Orange Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW Post 4305) and was the first African American Commander. He was also a member of the American Legion (Post 331). Deacon Henry retired from West Rock, formerly known as Victory Packaging Orlando Branch. On August 10, 2020, he received a Certificate of Service for his dedication and contribution to the Orlando Driver Team for over 20 years. He faithfully served customers throughout the State of Florida and was able to master all delivery areas from Orlando to Miami, Naples, Jacksonville, and beyond. On Saturday, April 13, 2025, Deacon Melvin Henry was called from his earthly labour to reward. He is resting in the bosom of the Savior. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grover and Ernestine Henry; sister, Lawana Henry Simmons, and other relatives. Deacon Henry leaves precious memories with his loving wife, Patricia; children, WIllie and Yasmika; his grandchildren, his only niece, Zawana Washington Boone; special cousin, Deborah Henry Roberson, 1 aunt, Mildred Scott Taylor, 2 uncles, Bobby Scott, and Edward “Sunny” Scott; and host of many loving cousins, other relatives, the Bethlehem Church Family and sorrowing friends.

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Melvin "Chubby" Henry

August 18, 1960 - April 13, 2025