Charles Haven Henley

Charles Haven Henley, known affectionately as Charlie, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at the VA Nursing Home in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Born on October 3, 1926, in Webster County, Mississippi, Charlie lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, and the simple pleasures of the countryside he loved so well.

Charlie enlisted in the United States Army during World War II. Growing up in Webster County, Charlie spent his early years farming, embracing the hard work and rhythms of rural life. During the 1950s, he moved to Jackson, Mississippi, where he became an active member of Creston Hills Baptist Church. Eventually settling in Harrisville, Mississippi, Charlie continued to cultivate his love of the outdoors and his community.

Beyond his military and church commitments, Charlie was a man of many talents and passions. He loved hunting—especially coon hunting—a pursuit that connected him deeply to the natural world. Alongside this, he was a gifted gardener with a green thumb, nurturing both flowers and vegetables in his gardens. Known for his skill at fixing things and his creativity with wood crafts, Charlie found joy in hands-on projects that allowed him to share his talents with those around him. Those who knew him remember him as a jokester, always ready with a smile or a well-timed laugh.

Charlie’s family was the cornerstone of his life. He was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Marion and Irene Henley; his wife of over forty years, Mary Ruth Shaffer Henley; his son, Travis Stan Henley; daughter-in-law Frankie Henley; and ten brothers and sisters. Their memories live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

He is lovingly survived by his daughter, Glenda Weems and her husband Chip of Pensacola, Florida; his son Dan Henley of Harrisville, Mississippi; daughter-in-law Judy Henley of Florence, Mississippi; grandchildren Edward Henley and his wife Vickie, Matthew B. Henley and his wife Amy, Josh Weems and his wife Lisa, and Carrie Garrett and her husband Louie; as well as great-grandchildren Olivia, Isaac, Declan, Micah, Aiden, Noah, Trace, Ruth, and Reese. The legacy of Charlie's kindness, humor, and dedication continues through his devoted family.

A graveside service to celebrate Charlie’s life will be held on June 6, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church Cemetery, located at 26 Hohenlinder Road in Mantee, Mississippi. This service will offer family, friends, and all who were touched by Charlie’s life the opportunity to pay their respects and honor his memory.

Charles Haven Henley’s remarkable life, defined by loyalty to his loved ones, dedication to his country, and an enduring connection to the land, leaves a lasting imprint on all who were fortunate to know him. His spirit of joy and resilience will be remembered with respect and deep affection.