Henry Young, Jr.

Henry Young, Jr., a beloved member of the community and devoted family man, passed away peacefully at his home in Wooton, Kentucky, on September 22, 2024. Born on March 12, 1949, in Big Creek-Perry County, KY., Henry lived a life characterized by hard work, dedication, and an undying love for his family.

By occupation, Henry Jr. was a retired coal miner, a profession he undertook with great pride and commitment. He loved the comradery he found among the coal miners and often shared his fond memories with his family. His contributions to his work were a testament to his strong work ethic and resilience. In addition to his career, Henry served his country honorably as a Veteran of the U.S. Army, a role that further exemplified his dedication and sense of duty.

Henry's passions extended beyond his professional life. He loved to garden and enjoyed sharing his harvest with family and friends. In his younger days, he also enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a lifelong fan of UK basketball and football and often shared his enthusiasm for sports with his family and friends. More than anything, however, Henry cherished the time spent with his family creating lasting memories that will be treasured by all who knew him. His light hearted demeanor made him a joy to be around. He was affiliated with the Full Gospel Church of Jesus Christ and his faith in God was evident by those closest to him. 

 Henry Jr. is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Dixie Turner Young, to whom he was married on November 27, 1968. He is also survived by one cherished son, Lance O'Neil Young (Ragina), and two cherished daughters, Misty Dawn Vance (Heath) and Regina Lynn Tessner (Jack). His family also includes three brothers, Ikie Whitaker, Joe Daniel Whitaker, and James Young (Johanna); three sisters, Evelyn Begley (Gary), Henrietta Young, and Maureen Johnson (Jim); and two treasured grandchildren, Jacob Clay Tessner and Gabriel Henry Tessner. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends are also left to mourn his passing, each holding their unique memories of Henry close to their hearts.

Preceding him in death were his beloved parents, Henry Young, Sr. and Dora Boggs, along with several siblings: Bill Whitaker, G.B. Whitaker, Molly S. Coots, Pauline Smith, Virgie Melton, Wanda Faye Williams, and Emma Louise Bingham.

Henry Young, Jr. will be profoundly missed by all whose lives he touched, and his legacy of love and strength will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

Funeral: Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. at the Full Gospel Church of Jesus Christ at Smilax, KY.

Visitation:  Wednesday, September 25, 2024 from 6-9pm at the Full Gospel Church of Jesus Christ at Smilax, KY.

Minister: Pastor Billy Joe Lewis

Interment: Kentucky Veterans Cemetery South East, Hyden, KY

*Military Rites will be performed by the Leslie County DAV Chapter #133*