Maxine Henry

Maxine Jacqueline Henry passed peacefully May 23, 2016 in Napa, California at the age of 91 as the result of a stroke.

Maxine was born in Hamilton, Washington, May 21, 1924 to Ernest C. and Mary G. Stradtner. She was the youngest of five children that included brothers; Maynard & Wayne and sisters; Velva & Della Mae. The family migrated to the San Joaquin Valley when she was very young. She grew up in Reedley, California, graduating from Reedley High School in 1942.

As a young girl, Maxine often worked in the orchards.

She was active in sports, participating in track, and was a member of a highly successful women’s traveling fast pitch softball team that competed in a national championship tournament. She kept her cherished red satin softball uniform in her cedar chest. Her skills in archery and woodworking were combined to design and create her own lemonwood long bow and arrows while still in high school. The bow continued to be used until it finally snapped in the 1960’s.

The family re-settled in Napa, California during World War II. Maxine, along with her father and sister Velva worked at Mare Island Shipyard during the war.

Maxine married Howard Henry in Napa on December 4, 1943. They raised three children; Dennis, Ricky and Linda. She remained at home with the children until the youngest child, Linda, was in high school when she began a career working in the business office at Napa College. She retired from Napa College in 1985.

Howard and Maxine were avid bowlers, involved in several leagues throughout the 1960’s-80’s, traveling to tournaments throughout California and Nevada. They also enjoyed caravanning and camping in their recreational vehicle with friends and family.

Maxine was pre-deceased by her husband, Howard Henry, all of her brothers and sisters, her daughter, Linda, and her grandson, Brett.  She is survived by her sons, Dennis and Ricky, one grandson, Clint, and five great-grandchildren; Lily, Dylan, Dakota, Dannie & Eithan.

A memorial service will take place at the Tulocay Chapel, June 3, 2016 at 11am followed by a reception at the same location. Memories may be shared with the family on-line at www.tulocaycemetery.org.

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