ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created by Rodger, Pauline, and Hillary in memory of our dear mother, Dr. Iris Ionie Henry, affectionately called "Sunshine." Born on February 27, 1937, she went to her rest on March 9, 2019 at the age of 82. We will remember her forever.

Dear family and friends:

Please feel free to leave a note of remembrance as we celebrate her life.

Funeral Service

  • Date: Sunday, April 7, 2019
  • Viewing: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. sharp
  • Place: Northern Caribbean University - The Gymnatorium
  • Mandeville, Manchester, Jamaica W.I.
  • Interment - St. Elizabeth
  • Link for funeral service https://youtu.be/6BTH9c-OBP8

 

March 9
March 9
The passing of time has not diminished the love I still feel for you and the precious memories we have of the good times spent together. Although it's been five years since you passed, we still talk about you ever so often.
We look forward to seeing you again in the earth made new.
Sleep on, mom.
March 9
Another year has passed without you but the precious memories live on. You are missed and talked about often. Love and laughter fills the room when we share the things you did and said.
We look forward to that day when as a family we can be reunited again.
February 27
February 27
My Aunt Sunny. Today you would have celebrated your 87th Birthday.
I am sure if you were with us, we would have gone to get a pedicure. Alyssa and I both never forget our special times together with you in our home or us in yours. RIP Auntie. You are missed, but surely not forgotten.
 
March 13, 2023
March 13, 2023
The passing of time has not diminished how often we think of you and tell stories of the memories shared. We smile when we repeat the phrases you use to say and when we look at your pictures. We love you and miss you.
Continue to rest until that day when we will all meet again.

Pauline and family
March 11, 2023
March 11, 2023
Time is passing quickly. It won't be much longer now that Jesus will return to take his children home. 
Iris left us a shining example.
May we stay ready for His call.
Prayers that we all remain faithful to answer when our time comes.
March 11, 2023
March 11, 2023
Roger, Pauline, Hillary, the entire Carnegie family remember fond memories of our parents working with yours at the Central Jamaica Conference. We mourn with you but with hope. Your mom spread sunshine wherever she went , her infectious smiles elicited many from us each time we visited. In anticipation of the great resurrection and grand reunion, let us be steadfast and ready for that greatly anticipated day. You are in our prayers. Bev, Rupert, Pat, Yvonne, Karlene.
March 9, 2023
March 9, 2023
Four years ago you left us but your memory still lives on in our hearts. Every so often I say a phrase you’d use frequently or reminisce on the fun times we shared.

Take your rest until Jesus comes.

Love you always, Hillary
March 13, 2021
March 13, 2021
Time is really flying bye. Gone but will never be forgotten. I remember the smiles she wore while walking the campus of WIC. I could always run up to her and ask for my friend and she would life and ask why, but she was just making fun of me. She is missed and I know that the children left behind have missed her too. Looking forward for that resurrection morning. Sleep until them.
March 10, 2021
March 10, 2021
On the second anniversary of your passing, we continue to cherish the wonderful times spent together. We look forward to seeing you again in the earth made new but until that time you will live on in our hearts.
Forever in our thoughts,
Rodger & Lorraine
March 10, 2021
March 10, 2021
Two years ago you laid down the burdens of this life to take your rest. You poured a lot of love into our family and we will always remember you for doing so. We look forward to the day we will be reunited again.
Love always, Hillary & Andre
March 9, 2021
March 9, 2021
Today marks two years since you rested from this world’s trials and labors. You left beautiful memories with your children. We look forward to that glorious day when we can be together again.
Forever missed and loved,
Pauline & Hansel
February 27, 2021
February 27, 2021
Another year has passed so quickly without you mom. Today would have been your 84th birthday. However, your memory is a constant. Your pleasant smile, favorite phrases, kind words, stories and determination are just some of the things remembered and talked about with family and friends.
Sleep on, you are loved.
Pauline and Hansel
February 27, 2021
February 27, 2021
Another year, another time to reflect on what a wonderful mother you were to me. Today you would have celebrated your 84th birthday. You were truly the best mother any one could have had and I thank God that He blessed me with you. I think of you all the time and the many fun times we had together.
Love you always,
Hillary & Andre
February 27, 2021
February 27, 2021
Two years have gone since you passed away and today would have been your 84th birthday. My heart fills with love whenever I think of how much you cared for me. Every so often I relive all the happy and joyous times we shared. I will never forget your lovely smile and the rays of sunshine you brought into my life. I still miss you very much.
Love,
Rodger and Lorraine
March 9, 2020
March 9, 2020
Mom, one year ago you laid down the burdens of this life. You lived a good life and set a great example for me. Will love and miss you always.
Hillary
February 28, 2020
February 28, 2020
Missing you on your 83rd birthday. Today is full of memories, happiness and tears, of birthday celebrations we've shared throughout the years. And though I'll always miss you the endless joy you brought warms my heart with gratitude and fill my every thought.                            Rodger & Lorraine.
February 28, 2020
February 28, 2020
Mom, I thought of you today as it would have been your 83rd birthday (2/27). The truth is, I think about you everyday. You’ll always have a special place in our hearts.
Hillary, Andre, Anecia & Adrian
February 27, 2020
February 27, 2020
Remembering you today on your birthday. You would have been 83 years old. You enjoyed celebrating your birthday.
Always in our thoughts,

Pauline, Hansel, Chantel and Conrad


July 4, 2019
My dad was Roy Pearce he called your mom Aunty he took me to visit her three times when I was very young and I remember her to be so warm and friendly a few year back when my brother Anthony returned to Jamaica he would visit her there in St Elizabeth and he would tell the stories of our family he woul hear from her I was lucky to visit her on one of my trips to Jamaica later and she shared stories and laughs with my husband and I. Sadly the last time I visited she had started forgetting things and us but I will always remember how sweet and kind she was. We loved her May her soul rest in paradise
April 19, 2019
April 19, 2019
An absoulte Gem of a human being! If one can ascribe the title of Lady!! to any woman, sister Henry was the perfect recipient. She was every student's friend and an excellent english teacher. Sleep well friend. My sincere condolences to the surviving family.
April 16, 2019
April 16, 2019
I couldn't be more than 8 yrs old but I vividly recall when Pastor Basil Henry, his wife Iris, son Roger and their 2 daughters (can't recall the names) came to the Bellas Gate/Blue Hole circuit of churches in St Catherine during the late 1960's. They provided great leadership to the churches and were highly respected by all.
I encountered Mrs Henry again in the year 2000 when she preached at the Portmore SDA Church on Women's Ministry Day. I reminded her of the days at Blue Hole church of which we had fond memories. Again I was greatly impacted by this noble woman's calm and sobering demeanour.

My condolences to the family as you mourn her loss and celebrate the legacy she has left behind.
April 15, 2019
April 15, 2019
From David Hutchinson & family:
Your mother was a wonderful Christian woman who exemplified righteous living. She was a blessing to many. May God bless your family as we await the imminent return of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
April 12, 2019
April 12, 2019
From Christopher Pennerman:
Hillary, please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your dear mom. She was someone whom I always respected and always enjoyed having as a lecturer. She will forever be remembered. Give my regards to Rodger, and Pauline.
April 11, 2019
April 11, 2019
From Mary Levy Kirlew Langley:
Condolences to my cousins. Aunt Sunny you will be surely missed.
Pauline, Rodger and Hillary, stay strong for each other. May God bless you. Take comfort in all the memories and the knowledge that you will see her again in the earth made new. Love you all.
April 11, 2019
April 11, 2019
From Marlene Findlay Campbell:
Please accept sincere condolences on the passing of your mom. I have fond memories of your her teaching me in high school and college. May you take pleasure in knowing that she touched many lives in a positive way.
May her soul RIP.
April 11, 2019
April 11, 2019
Joseph Hutchinson & family:
Rodger, Pauline and Hillary, we understand your loss and celebrate with you true love. You and your parents will always be a part of our family.
Praying for God's miracles and anointing throughout this season to the day of immortal reunions.
April 11, 2019
April 11, 2019
From Jerome Higgins:
Your mother was a wonderful lady. I met her several years ago at NCU.
May her soul rest in peace.
April 11, 2019
April 11, 2019
From Rolston Amos:
Rodger, I'm very sad to hear of the passing of your mom. She was my principal at Willowdene Prep School. She was such a nice person and principal. My sincere condolences to you and the rest of the family.
April 11, 2019
April 11, 2019
From Dolphy Cross & family:
Please accept our sincere condolences in this time of loss. Bless be the ties that bind our hearts in Christian love. We will keep the entire family in our prayers.
April 11, 2019
April 11, 2019
From Stephanie Demetrius & family:
Our condolences are extended to the entire family. I had the wonderful pleasure of not only knowing Mrs. Henry but co-laboring with her at Willowdene High School. I deeply cherish those days. One of my greatest accomplishments was having Rodger, Pauline, and Hillary as my students.
I love you all and will cherish the memories.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Patricia Williams:
My Auntie and godmother—we shall meet on that beautiful shore.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Joy & Hugh Maynard-Reid:
We mourn the loss of this “saint” of God. May you, the children, be comforted with the knowledge that your mom was an angel with skin and bones. She blessed many, and her positive impact is being felt world wide. We are confident that she is resting in peace and her resting place will be marked by angels. She will hear the trumph of God and will come forth in the first resurrection. Thank God for the blessed hope. So mourn with the assurance that it won't be long when you will see your loved one again.
May God grant you the strength and courage needed at this time of great loss. Accept our deep and sincere condolences. Dear children, be faithful - "The golden morning is fast approaching, Jesus soon will come" - get ready and stay ready.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Vanessa Miller:
Mrs. Henry was indeed a ray of sunshine! We mourn with you Hillary and the rest of your family and look forward to a great reunion when Christ returns.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Janet & Milton Fletcher:
Sincere condolences to the Henry family during this time of bereavement. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Olive Hemmings & family:
The best is yet to come. That smile will shine far more brilliantly than anyone can now imagine.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Lorraine Davidson:
She was such a lovely woman indeed!! Please accept my condolences. Thanking God for this blessed hope.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Dudley Mullings:
My deepest sympathy and prayers to you Hillary and your family. Be of good courage and be comforted in the promises of the Lord.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Joan Rogers & family:
My deepest condolences to Pauline, Roger, and Hillary. Your Mom was truly amazing and a very kind christian woman. The world has lost a great one.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Jennifer Brown:
Beautiful mom, with a sweet spirit. She rests with the assurance of the first resurrection!
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Byron Dann:
Hillary, my sincere condolences my friend, she was my teacher and my friend. May her soul rest in peace.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Pauline Forbes:
My condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Silas McKinney & family:
My heart goes out to you, Hillary and family. Only those who have gone through it can truly sympathize. Be strong—you will see her again.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Wain Bennett:
So sorry to hear about the passing of Mrs. Henry. She was one of my mothers. Heartfelt condolences.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Marcia Chambers & family:
Sincere condolences to my beloved cousins.
Rest In Peace Aunt Sunny.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Sandee Barker Dunbar:
Hillary, so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. I have fond memories of a kind, gentle and sweet woman. You were blessed to have had such a wonderful Mom.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Pamella Johnson:
My condolences to you Hillary and your family. God already has her name in that Book of Life. RIP Mrs. Henry
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From John Wesley & family:
My deepest sympathies go out to you Hillary and your family. May God give you the peace that you seek.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Colin & Patricia Stewart:
I have very fond memories of my time in Jamaica and a warm glow when I remember my conversations with Sis Henry. Rest in peace Praying for the family.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Horatio Williams:
Our lives are richer by and from being a part of hers. Sleep on until that day Aunt Iris.
April 9, 2019
April 9, 2019
From Lee Campbell:
So sorry to hear about your loss, Hillary. My prayers are with you and the rest of your family.
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Recent Tributes
March 9
March 9
The passing of time has not diminished the love I still feel for you and the precious memories we have of the good times spent together. Although it's been five years since you passed, we still talk about you ever so often.
We look forward to seeing you again in the earth made new.
Sleep on, mom.
March 9
Another year has passed without you but the precious memories live on. You are missed and talked about often. Love and laughter fills the room when we share the things you did and said.
We look forward to that day when as a family we can be reunited again.
February 27
February 27
My Aunt Sunny. Today you would have celebrated your 87th Birthday.
I am sure if you were with us, we would have gone to get a pedicure. Alyssa and I both never forget our special times together with you in our home or us in yours. RIP Auntie. You are missed, but surely not forgotten.
 
Her Life

Life Sketch of Iris

April 11, 2019

Iris Ionie “Sunshine” Henry, fourth child of Septimus Clarke and Charlotte Levy, was born on February 27, 1937 in the peaceful and picturesque countryside of Winchester, St. Elizabeth. As if to announce her birth, rays of honey-gold sunlight burst through the window setting the room all aglow. At that very moment, her oldest sister walked in, and upon seeing the sun rays on her declared proudly, “She is a sunshine baby!” From that day forward, Iris was affectionately called “Sunshine”—a name befitting her winsome personality.

Iris grew up in a close-knit household with her mother and five sisters: Hortense (Sister Etta), Enid, Hyacinth (Vivie), Grethel, and Josephine (Joan). Throughout their childhood, they shared a deep affection for each other. This bond grew stronger as they became older and remained throughout their adult years.

From an early age, Iris displayed a thirst for learning. By the time she started attending Barbary Hall Elementary School, at age seven, she was well ahead of her class. By age fourteen, she passed the Third Jamaica Local Examination and subsequently won a full scholarship to Black River High School. In 1953, her senior year, she sat the Cambridge School Certificate Examination along with nine other students. When the results were published, the name Iris Clarke was the sole one that appeared in the Daily Gleaner. Being too young for employment, she was sent to Kingston where she attended the Eastern Academy Commercial School. The knowledge and skills she gained there enabled her to secure her first job at seventeen-years-old working for the Black River Parish Council. 

Around this time a young, dashing pastor by the name of Basil Lee Henry was pastoring in the Black River district. As soon as he met Iris, he knew that he wanted her to be his lifelong partner. Their friendship quickly blossomed into love and after a brief courtship they were married on November 27, 1955 at the Williamsfield Seventh-day Adventist Church. From this lovely union, four children were born: Rodger, Pauline, Hillary, and Karen.

Iris was a model pastor’s wife. She blessed her husband’s ministry immensely by playing the organ, singing for services, teaching the Children’s Sabbath School and, where possible, forming a church choir. They ministered in several districts including Lacovia, St. Elizabeth (where they were instrumental in establishing that church), Claremont, St. Ann and eventually Spanish Town, St. Catherine.

While raising three children, Iris aspired to further her education and felt a calling towards teaching. She matriculated in the Teacher Education Program at West Indies College (now Northern Caribbean University), graduating with a Diploma in Primary Education and earning the Joint Board of Teacher Education Certificate in 1967. During this time her husband served as an officer of the Central Jamaica Conference and Iris taught at Willowdene High School. Displaying a strong interest in the success of her students, the Central Jamaica Conference recognized her as a suitable candidate for principal and appointed her to the position within a few years. Under her leadership, the school flourished—enrollment increased significantly, passes in both the Jamaica School Certificate and General Certificate Examinations improved and morale was high.

As an educator, Iris knew the importance of higher education, so she matriculated at the University of the West Indies and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and General Studies in 1976. However, two weeks before her final exams, she suffered a heartbreaking loss, when her husband passed away suddenly. Despite this terrible blow, Iris persevered knowing God would take care of her and her children.

In the summer of that year, Iris relocated her family to Mandeville where she joined the faculty of West Indies College. For the first few years, she taught Freshman Composition, Survey of English Literature, and West Indian History. Under her tutelage, students had an awakening, as she breathed new life into these courses. Shakespeare’s plays and the poetic works of many literary greats that they once considered dull and uninteresting suddenly became fascinating and worthy of learning.

Sensing the need to upgrade her qualifications, Iris went back to her alma mater, the University of the West Indies, and graduated with a Master’s degree in English in 1988. Upon her return to the college, she was appointed Head of the English Department. Determined to make a difference and expand the courses offered by the Department, she added Communications as part of the curriculum and gained approval for the Associate degree program in English. She also revived the English as a Second Language Program (ESL) and reestablished the Literary and Debating Clubs. Before long, she was promoted to Chairperson of the Division of Humanities.

Iris was much more than a professor to her students. Blessed with a natural aptitude to nurture and mentor, she became a ‘mother figure’ to many. She sparked curiosity, ignited passion, and fueled dreams in many of her students. As some struggled, she molded wings of confidence in them to inspire flight. Throughout her teaching career, she turned many ‘I can’t’ into ‘I did.’ The love she had for her students was unparalleled—a quality that made her a great teacher. In appreciation for her unwavering support for the student body, the United Student Movement dedicated the college’s school yearbook, the Palm Leaves, to her in 1988. 

In 1993 Iris was called to serve in a different sector of the Adventist Church organization. She was appointed as the first female Director of Education for the West Indies Union Conference (now Jamaica Union Conference).  She later served as the Director of Women and Children’s Ministries. Understanding how critical both ministries were to the sustenance of the church, she worked diligently to promote them throughout the Union.

After giving 45 years of dedicated service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Iris retired in December of 2005. As a faithful worker for God and His church, she greatly influenced many lives throughout her career.

In 2010 Iris suffered another terrible loss when her youngest child, Karen, passed away. Through it all, she kept her faith in God who was able to sustain her through this very difficult time. However, in the midst of sadness God gave her something to rejoice about as she received her Doctorate in Education degree later that year.

Throughout her lifetime, Iris wore many hats—pastor’s wife, church organist, administrator, college professor, entrepreneur, counselor, mentor, to name a few. During her tenure at West Indies College, she served as Interim Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Church Elder, Sabbath School sponsor, Hospitality and Usher Coordinator. She was also involved in community work and was a member of these organizations: Jamaica Women’s Federation, United Nations Association, Jamaica Festival Committee and Housewives Association. For her dedicated contribution to these institutions, she received numerous awards and citations. Iris was never reluctant to serve or take on added responsibilities—no matter how challenging.  
Iris loved life and lived it to the fullest. Apart from her academic achievements, one of the things that gave her great satisfaction was music. On many evenings she would sit at her piano and play while singing her favorite hymns. For many years, she was a member of the Mandeville Chorale (formerly Tuesday Singers). Traveling, her other favorite pastime, was something she enjoyed immensely. Whether for work or pleasure, Iris visited many cities and countries of the world including the United States, France, Spain, London, Mexico, the Bahamas, Bermuda, to name a few. No matter where Iris traveled, she left an indelible mark on those she met. 

Spending time with her children, grandchildren, and friends was one of the things Iris treasured the most. Her home was often the venue for many get-togethers for family, students, and faculty from the college. She radiated love and had enough to go around. Everyone loved her too and enjoyed being in her presence. Road trips with Iris were full of fun and laughter. You could rest assured that there would be a jerk-chicken or fried fish stop somewhere along the trip back home. These experiences have created wonderful memories that will remain forever with all those who knew her. 

In recent years, Iris’ health began to decline after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. However, it did not take away her pleasant spirit. In January of this year, her medical condition worsened and on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at the age of 82, she passed away at the Hargreaves Memorial Hospital.

The Scripture verse 2 Timothy 4:7 sums up her life beautifully—“I have fought a good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” We know that Iris is only resting for a while and we are confident that she will rise again in the first resurrection to meet her Lord and Saviour.

Iris leaves to cherish her wonderful memory her three surviving children: Rodger Henry (Lorraine) of Florida, Pauline Fletcher (Hansel) of California, and Hillary Ascalon (Andre) of New Jersey; grandchildren: Chantel, Conrad, Anecia, Adrian, and Dimitri; surviving siblings: Hyacinth Lynch and Josephine Miller; cousins, nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Recent stories
March 26, 2019

May God give peace abd comfort to the family at this time .My deepest condolences 

May her soul rest in peace 




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