Michael Shannon Henry

The world became a lot less bright on May 8, 2025, with the passing of Michael Shannon Henry, Sr. “Pappy.” Born on May 11, 1949, in Pearisburg, Virginia, Pappy’s infectious laughter and unending humor brought joy to everyone around him.

Pappy is survived by his true love of 36 years, Kathy Fisher Poff; three devoted sons, Michael S. Henry, II (Krislyn), Adam Henry (Kristin), and Ryan Poff (Laura); the loves of his life, his grandchildren, Haven (Drake), Parker, Sawyer, Lucy Jane, Addisyn “Addy”, Ella “El” and Lachlan “Baby cakes”; sisters-in-law, Pat Bostic and Dreama Douthat; nieces, Kym White and Carolyn Lewis; nephews John Fisher (Carol), Lee Bennett, and Derek Douthat; cousin Heather Smith; special friends Gil, Gary, Gilly, and Greg Barba, Ed and Wanda Lynch Keith Vest, Betty Lafon and 4-legged companion, “Rosie”. He was preceded in death by his parents, Warren Lewis Henry and Virginia Poff Henry; grandparents, Terry and Agnes Henry and best friends Joel, Kasey, and Steve.

Pappy attended Virginia Western Community College where he pursued mechanical engineering and art. He continued his education at the Maynard Institute in North Carolina enhancing his studies in mechanical engineering and drafting.

Pappy enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War where he was stationed at Lackland Air Force in San Antonio, Texas. He was medically discharged following a knee injury during jump training. Not one to shy away from conflict, Pappy often expressed remorse for his inability to fight alongside his brothers in Vietnam.

Always displaying his versatility, Pappy was employed at the City of Salem Electric Department, Allen Imaging, Henry and Sons Contracting, Henry Private Investigating, and entered Custom Blinds and Drapery with loyal friends Ed Lynch, Floyd Critcher, and Kevin Conner.

Pappy was an accomplished musician and songwriter. He played acoustic guitar, piano, and drums. He was proud of his accomplished penmanship by writing a collection of songs, poetry, love letters, cards, and notes. He was also a 3rd degree black belt and a Sensei to many martial arts learners (he even demonstrated his skill on Kathy more than once).

Pappy was proud of his devotion to the Brethren Church and bore witness to Jesus and the lessons he taught all his life. He helped guide multitudes towards a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.

Pappy loved coaching football, basketball, and baseball for the City of Salem and Glenvar from 1990-2012. He left a lasting impression on many youths while imprinting the importance of having fun, being of strong character, and working hard towards goals. He will always be remembered by his many players as “Coach.”

He was a Charter Member of the Salem Moose Lodge where he was on the ritual team and served as Prelate and Governor.

The family will receive friends for a short visitation on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 5:30 PM at New Century Church, followed by a memorial service honoring and celebrating Pappy at 6:00 PM

“I am my father's son

I wear his blue-jean jacket and his name like a badge of honor

I used to hate being called "Junior"

But I don't mind any longer.”