Ashley Henry

We Honor the Life and Legacy of Ashley Vernell Henry

Ashley Vernell Henry was born on December 14, 1984, in Chicago, Illinois, to Iris Henry and Maynard Brooks. He peacefully transitioned on February 27, 2026.

From the very beginning, Ashley was a joyful and bright-spirited child whose presence brought light and happiness to his parents’ lives. His early years began in the Chicago Public School system before relocating with his mother and siblings to Lansing, Michigan, where he continued his education through the Lansing Public School District.

Ashley distinguished himself as an exceptional athlete at J.W. Sexton High School, where he was a proud member of both the football and track teams. As a free safety on the football field, he demonstrated discipline and determination, while in track and field, he excelled in hurdles. His talent and dedication earned him Top 10 placements in the 110-meter hurdles, 300-meter hurdles, and 50-meter hurdles. He went on to further his education and athletic career at Grand Rapids Community College as a football student-athlete.

Grounded in faith, Ashley was a member of Galilee Baptist Church in South Lansing, where he was baptized. His spiritual foundation was reflected in the way he lived and uplifted others.

Ashley had a deep passion for encouraging and motivating those around him. He found joy in mentoring youth, often pushing them beyond their limits even when they resisted, because he saw their potential. He was a strong advocate for healthy living, frequently offering guidance on fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being. Above all, Ashley desired to see others succeed and thrive in every aspect of life.

Above all, Ashley was a devoted and proud father to his beloved son, Aquarius, who was truly his pride and joy. His love for Aquarius was evident in all that he did, and he cherished every moment spent guiding, nurturing, and pouring into his son’s life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Maynard Brooks; his grandparents, Wilfred and Florence Henry, and Waynard and Phyllis Brooks; his aunts, Ethyl Conner, Toni Henry, and Deanna Bolden; and his uncles, Wilfred Henry, Darryl Henry, Hayward Conner, and Harris Ruthledge.

Ashley leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Iris Henry; his beloved son, Aquarius Henry; his brother, Courtney Henry; his sisters, Desirae Henry, Victoria Henry, and Christina (China) Henry; his bonus sister, Shoneé Funches; his nieces, Imanii Henry, Kamarie Henry, Ashleigh Henry, De’Nejah Henry, Christiana Henry, and Vanessa Henry; his bonus nephew, Ja’vary Funches; his aunts, Francine Henry, Sharon, Deborah Ruthledge, and Denise Jackson; his uncles, Garland, Lamont Ruthledge, Bernard Brooks, and Shannon Guy; along with a host of extended family members and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.