JEFF HENRY

HENRY, JEFF It is with tremendous respect and honour of a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Jeff Henry. Born in Trinidad and Tobago in 1922, he utilized his natural talents of dance and movement as well as his impressive work ethic, to build a name for himself in the arts community. After meeting his wife Frances 64 years ago, he immigrated to the United States and finally, to Canada, in 1963. Here in Toronto, he co-created the first Black theatre and was on the early committees of development of the festival we now know of as Caribana. He continued his creative career as a director, actor and dancer until he became a professor of Theatre and Movement at York University. In retirement, he enjoyed watching sports and political events around the world. At age 85, he began research and published a book about the Carnival in Trinidad. At times of confusion and unrest either globally or personally he could be counted on for counsel and support. He often would generously draw on his almost century's worth of knowledge and insight with his loved ones. In addition to his wife, he leaves behind children, Miriam and Terrence, five grandchildren and a great-grandchild.