William Joseph Henley

With deep love and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of William J. Henley, a kind, gentle, and remarkably selfless man whose sharp intellect, steady wisdom, and generous heart touched all who knew him. Born in Jersey City and raised in Verona, New Jersey, he carried his warm heart and sense of service with him throughout his life.
A proud graduate of Seton Hall University, where he earned both his BA and MBA, he built a foundation of integrity, discipline, and perseverance that shaped every chapter that followed. Before beginning his professional journey, he enjoyed a brief singing career, including as the lead performer with the Collegians. This musical and theatrical group toured the state, raising funds for scholarships. It was during this time - an early reflection of his many talents and passions - that he met his future wife, Barbara.
After serving his country with honor in the Army, earning numerous recognitions for his dedication and excellence, including the rank of Captain, he embarked on a distinguished and highly successful career at MetLife, ultimately serving as an executive and head of the Equity Investments Department. There, his leadership, insight, and professionalism earned him deep respect throughout the industry. During his years at MetLife, he also devoted time to charities that reflected his deep Catholic faith, serving on the boards of The Christophers and Covenant House - organizations founded in the spirit of compassion - where he shared his gifts with humility and unwavering generosity.
He married the love of his life, Barbara, and together they began their life in Cranford, later moving to Cedar Grove and eventually Roseland, where they raised their family.
William was the beloved father to June Bosco and her husband, Peter, Barbara Corallo and her husband Chuck, William Henley and his wife Janeen, and Kristin Giacobello and her husband James. As a father, he was endlessly generous, gentle, and selfless - present in every way that mattered, offering guidance, humor, and a steady hand. His sharp wit and compassionate spirit created a home filled with laughter, support, and unconditional love.
Upon retirement, he poured all of that same devotion into his grandchildren, becoming their constant champion and proudest supporter. He was the devoted and beloved "Poppy" to Ryan Giacobello, Kyle Giacobello, and Connor Henley, the grandchildren who filled his heart with immeasurable joy. "Everyone knows Poppy," people would say, because he showed up for everything - every game, every school event, every milestone - always with pride in his eyes and love in his smile. He delighted in traveling, savored quiet rounds of golf, and cherished the simple, meaningful moments spent with each of his children and their families - memories that brought him profound happiness and warmth. He had a gift for making everyone feel uniquely seen and loved, and his presence was a beacon of warmth wherever he went. He adored his children and grandchildren - and even the family's grand doggies - with an affection that shaped the heart of the family.
Whether spending time on Long Beach Island watching beautiful sunsets or enjoying the easy comfort of Stuart, Florida - where everything was "better" - he surrounded himself with the people he cherished most. His gentle soul, generous spirit, and sharp intelligence touched countless lives. Though he will be profoundly missed, we are all better for having known him, loved him, and been loved by him. His beautiful legacy of kindness, humor, selflessness, and quiet strength will live on in all of us, every single day.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Roseland, immediately followed by interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 225 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in William's honor to The Christophers. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William, please visit our floral store.