Dawn Henry

Dawn Henry was born on March 27, 1950, in Clarendon Jamaica, to the late Hazel Johnson and Samuel Pusey (Pew-Zee). Dawn's journey of 75 years was marked by an unwavering dedication to her family, her faith, and the countless lives she touched through her work and personal passions.
Her early life in Jamaica set the stage for a lifetime of warmth and hospitality, where she worked as a teacher for Jamal a division of the ministry of education and youth, traits that defined her as a matriarch, a mentor, and friend. Dawn did not stop there her ambitious nature then led to her opening her own store where she sold a variety of goods, her kindness lead her to give away the majority of goods to those in need instead of turning a profit. She carried the essence of her island's culture with her when she migrated, infusing her new surroundings with the love and zest for life that were her trademarks. Dawn's education at Long Island Technical School laid the foundation for her career as a personal care technician, a role in which she excelled and brought comfort to many during their times of need.
Her professional life was a testament to her caring nature, as she served diligently in her capacity as a PCT, always going above and beyond to ensure the well-being of those under her care, never missing a day from work through sun, rain and snow. Dawn's involvement in her community reflected her commitment to service and her Christian faith. Never one to shy away from speaking her mind and standing up for injustice, she was a beacon of light and hope to all who knew her, embodying the words of Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love."
Dawn's love story with Woodrow Henry spanned over 40 years of marriage, and blessed them with four beautiful children: Michael, Mishelle, Maisha, and the late Maxwell, a tragic passing that Dawn never healed from but found joy in her continued role as a mother to Michael, Mishelle and Maisha, all of whom were the light of her life. she instilled in her children the values of kindness, perseverance, and the joy of life. She extended this love to her six grandchildren, Marquise in particular whom she shared a very close and special bond with, and always said his charm and humor reminded her of her late son Maxwell.
A connoisseur of culinary arts, Dawn found solace and joy in cooking, which she learnt from her wonderful grandmother, the late Hannah Knight. Her kitchen was a haven where delicious aromas mingled with laughter and conversation. She shared this love with the community when she worked as the head chef at a Caribbean restaurant in Queens New York. She enjoyed watching cooking programs, always eager to learn new recipes and techniques. Dawn's adventurous spirit shone through her love of travel, exploring new places and cultures, which she often recounted to her family with sparkling eyes and vivid stories.
Dawn was the beloved sister of nine brothers and seven sisters, two of whom preceded her in death. Her siblings will remember her as the glue that held the family together, her laughter and kindness a balm to their souls during times of sorrow and joy alike. Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her legacy of love, strength, compassion, and zest for life will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
A beloved mother and nurturing soul whose life was as vibrant and nurturing as the tropical paradise of her birth, Dawn departed this life on July 27, 2025, in Paramus, New Jersey, following a cardiac arrest.
Her life was a journey of love, service, and faith. As we say farewell to this remarkable woman, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were touched by her grace. Her memory will forever be cherished and her life celebrated as we honor the remarkable woman she was. May she rest in eternal peace, her legacy enduring as a testament to a life well-lived.