Barbara Henry Obituary

Barbara Ann Henry (n e Houghton), formerly of Bennington, Vermont, passed away on December 31, 2017 after a short illness.

Barbara is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, James P. Henry, and her nine children, Barbara Henry (Adam Fields), Maureen Henry (Paul Kemp), Donna Henry (Dan Procopio), Jim Henry (Terry Henry), Marianne Henry Saylor (Shawn Saylor), Bill Henry (Laurie), Elaine Harwood, Karen O'Malley (Kevin O'Malley), and Janine McNulty (Mike McNulty). Barbara is also survived by her brother, Francis Houghton and sister-in- law Barbara Houghton. Barbara was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren: Emily Henry, Mollie Henry, Jocelyn Harwood, Alanna O'Malley, Kaitlyn Henry, Megan Henry, Nathan Harwood, Simon Kemp and Analeise O'Malley, and one great granddaughter, Harper Henry.

Barbara was born in Philadelphia, PA in 1939, to Ida Mae and William Henry Houghton. Barbara graduated from West Catholic High School for Girls in 1957. She graduated from Bennington College with a B.A. in painting and ceramics in 1985.

Barbara raised her family in Bennington, Vermont, where she lived for 44 years. Since 2014, Barbara lived with her husband and daughter, Donna, in Aldan, PA.

Barbara was happiest spending time with her family. Barbara encouraged individuality, creativity and curiosity in her children and grandchildren.

Barbara was an artist who worked in several mediums. She discovered a true passion for abstract painting while a student at Bennington College. She worked in acrylic, pastel and charcoal. She also created sculptural ceramic pieces. More recently, Barbara made jewelry using colored polymer clay and often employed the same technique of layering many colors that she used in her abstract paintings.

Barbara loved to read mystery novels, watch English mystery television series and movies, play word games and keep up with the world on Facebook.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 12:00 noon at Radnor Valley Country Club, 555 Sproul Rd, Villanova, PA 19085.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Pennsylvania SunCatcher Fund, c/o Holisticare Hospice, LLC, 685 Kromer Ave., Berwyn, PA 19312

Published by Bennington Banner on Jan. 5, 2018.
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Jim and Terry,
I am sorry Jim to hear of your moms passing. Not sure why I was reading through the obituaries, but came accross your moms notice.
Again, sorry for your loss

Mike Baker

January 23, 2018

Mike and I were traveling and had no idea of Barbs passing. I'm so very sorry. Such a wonderful lady with a wonderful group of children. Hugs and love to all

Jo Mcgarrahan

January 14, 2018

I was saddened to hear of Barbara's death. May her memory be a blessing.

Ellen Jones

January 14, 2018

We had planned to drive from Bennington to Philadelphia this morning for the Service, however the weather had alternate plans. I am heartbroken at not being able to express my condolences in person.

The phrase "flatlanders" is thrown around frequently in the Vermont vernacular. Typically it is meant to refer to those who move here, bringing their "big city" ideas to "corrupt" our pristine little state. Jim and Barb arrived in Bennington from Philadelphia/Jersey shore via Long Island, which is about as "flat" as you can get. For forty plus years they became woven into the Bennington fabric; raising nine children who all attended/graduated from local schools. The Henrys did not simply live in Bennington, they dove in headfirst. They interacted, they worked, they volunteered, they learned, they gave, and gave some more. Through their actions, they promoted their concept of citizenship. Be involved, learn, question the status quo, but in a manner that doesn't push folks away. The lives of many in this community were and are impacted by those concepts, and by these people. The Henry's gave more than they took from the Bennington Community. Our town is better for having them.

I had the good sense, and good fortune to be able to buy two paintings from Barb about 6 years ago. They hang in my home this morning. Her creativity, her passion, her willingness to take a risk or two, stare me in the face every day. I am better for having them.

John Winchester

January 13, 2018

Jim and Terry, I am so sorry to hear of Moms passing. My condolences to you both in this time of sorrow.
Steve Griffith

Steve Griffith

January 9, 2018

I remember thirty years ago when I met Barbara in the driveway of your home on Elm Street in Vermont. I knew right away that I had found a wonderful family and great husband. I am honored and blessed to have been a part of your life. I will truly miss when I walk into Donna's home seeing your warm, gentle smile. My most heartfelt condolences go out to the Henry family. Rest in peace Nana.

Terry Henry

January 7, 2018

Dear Jim and Donna -- I know you must be having some difficult moments during this time, but please know that all your Bennington friends and family are sending good and prayerful thoughts your way. I can still hear Barbara's laugh and wise sayings at the desk at the Bennington Library. She must have read everything in that place and, more importantly, remembered everything she read. I treasure the necklace she made many years ago and think of her every time I wear it.
Ruth Ann Myers

Ruth Ann Myers

January 7, 2018

Dear Jim and Family: I send you my prayers and condolences. Barbara was a special person who took opportunities to learn all of her life and to make life vibrant for herself, her family, and friends through her art. I pray that your memories of Barbara will buoy you up and sustain you. May she rest in peace.

Ray Lambert

January 5, 2018

So sorry for your loss. I was lucky enough to benefit from having her as an art teacher in college. She was a wonderful, insightful and very creative woman.

Tracy Raetz

January 5, 2018

Dear Karen and Family,
Please accept our condolences on the loss of your beloved mother.

Bennington County Meals on Wheels

January 5, 2018

I never knew Mrs. Henry, but I have known the other "Mrs. Henry", Terry, since childhood. Thus have become great friends with Jim and Auntie to Mollie and Megan. Coming from a large family, I know just how important Mom was in the order of things. This Mrs. Henry is loved by so many and leaves a legacy of love and family. Sending love to all the Henry's, may God comfort you and bring you his mercy and peace.

Nancy Fabiano Fullem

January 5, 2018

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Memorial service

12:00 p.m.

Radnor Valley Country Club

555 Sproul Rd., Villanova, VT

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