John Franklin "Frank" Henry

John Franklin "Frank" Henry III passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, leaving behind a life beautifully lived-marked by service, devotion to family, and a quiet, enduring grace. Born into this world December 28, 1937 in Texarkana, Arkansas, Frank was the son of John Franklin "JF" Henry, Jr. and Bertha "Bea" Pearl Wagner. Frank grew up an only child in Texarkana, where he attended Texarkana High School and quickly distinguished himself as both an excellent student and a talented football player. He met the love of his life while in high school, Margaret "Nell" Cobb, and they dated throughout their high school years. Upon his death, they had been married for 66 years.
Frank attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where he majored in Chemical Engineering. Upon graduation he joined the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant, beginning a distinguished military career. He and Nell married on December 27, 1959 and almost immediately left for his first tour, in Europe. In his early years of service, Frank was stationed in Germany, where he and Nell embraced the joy of travel throughout Europe-skiing, exploring historic cities, and driving through the countryside in their sporty MG, bringing along their beloved pet chihuahua Skoshi.
Frank's Army career was both impactful and far-reaching. He worked primarily at the Pentagon in Army logistics, contributing to efforts that spanned several wars. He lived in Anniston, Alabama, Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, and Monterey, California before moving to the metro DC area in 1970. While in Monterey he attended the Naval Postgraduate School, earning a Masters degree in Operations Research. He retired from the Army with honors in 1981 as a Lt Colonel, having achieved the respect and admiration of colleagues and those he mentored along the way.
Never one to stop learning, Frank embarked on a second career after military retirement working in the field of artificial intelligence. He helped build knowledge based expert systems for numerous clients and later consulted with government contracting firms before his final retirement in the late 1990's.
Frank and Nell raised two children, Laura Lynne Henry Owens and Steven Trevor Henry. Frank was a devoted and engaged father-faithfully supporting Laura through her musical and dancing pursuits, and supporting Steve in his sports, music and Boy Scout activities. Laura is married to Les Owens, and Steve is married to Theresa Happ Henry. He was a proud and loving grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife Nell, Laura's children-Justin and Joe Owens, by Steven's children Trevor, Caroline, and Julia Henry, and by 3 great grandchildren Luke, Cassia and Sarah. He took genuine interest in each of their lives, delighting in their growth, accomplishments, and personalities.
A man of wide-ranging interests and great curiosity, Frank loved to travel and learn. He was a Mensa member and exceptionally well-read-a true life long scholar. He was a great conversationalist, especially with his family, and cherished meaningful discussions on history, science, and world affairs. He loved grilling a perfect steak, growing beautiful roses and tomatoes, and cruising around the world (14 cruises!)
Frank had a special love for dogs, especially his cherished companion, Bailey. He was an enthusiastic NFL fan and a devoted supporter of the Dallas Cowboys. He was also a fan of science fiction stories and movies – Star Wars, Planet of the Apes, and especially Star Trek. He enjoyed supporting numerous causes he believed in, like the Wounded Warrior Project, Heifer International and the Shriner's Hospital for Children.
At his core, Frank was caring, thoughtful, chivalrous, and an old-school Southern gentleman. He enjoyed engaging his community at Westminster, participating as an usher at church services, supporting the library, and taking numerous origami classes.
Frank Henry's life was one of purpose, kindness, and enduring love-for his family, his country, his faith, and the world he so eagerly explored. Raised Baptist but later a Presbyterian, his faith remained an important and grounding presence throughout his life. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.