Mary Lou Henry

Mary Lou Henry from Winnie, Texas, passed away March 24, 2026.

She was born to Melvin and May Ella Cummins, who preceded her in death along with her beloved husband of 73 years, Hubert Henry, her brother Jiggs, and her sisters Verna and Wilma “Sis”.

Mary Lou is survived by her sisters Linda and Lois “Baby”, three daughters: Susan King Flora and husband Mike, Deborah Henry Joiner, and Tina Henry Leslie and husband Steve. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Scott King and wife Alyssa, Christopher Miguez, Jason Lee and wife Brandi, Corey Lee and wife Scarlett, and David Leslie and wife Lauren; along with 11 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and a legacy of love that will continue for generations.

Known as “Momma” to her girls, “Maw Maw” to her grandchildren, and “Shug” to Hubert, Mary Lou was the heart of her family.

In her younger years, she was a high school homecoming queen and loved homemaking class. Something she carried with her throughout her life. She was an exceptional cook, known for meals that brought everyone to the table. Her roast, rice dressing, fruit cake cookies, and 7-minute icing were family favorites, often enjoyed with a scoop of Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla ice cream that could always be found in her freezer. No one ever left Maw Maw’s house hungry, and many looked forward all week to a meal at her table.

Mary Lou began helping her mother at a young age, developing a strong work ethic that never left her. She worked alongside Hubert in his rice farming business, often found at the rice dryers, and was a steadfast helper both inside and outside the home.

She adored her daughters and grandchildren, faithfully showing up for their games and activities, and even hosting her grandson’s football team for weekly meals. She didn’t just watch life, she joined in, running and playing right alongside her grandchildren and great-grandchildren during their visits.

She ran a tight ship at home, keeping everything neat, orderly, and just so, but always with warmth, love, and a little bit of sass and spice.

Mary Lou loved the simple joys of life…playing basketball in her youth, games like “Walking the Barrel,” sewing and crafting with her sisters, dancing with Hubert, and traveling. Together, she and Hubert shared countless adventures, including memorable road trips to Alaska and Canada. Hubert would hand her the map and say, “You choose where we go, and I’ll drive.” Mary Lou was always the navigator.

Mary Lou loved her pecans and the treats she made with them, often baking her famous sweets for those she loved. Special trips were made to Junction to gather them, and she and Hubert always made sure to enjoy the first batch together.

Mary Lou had a quiet but confident faith and was remembered to have once said, “I know for a FACT Jesus is in our corner.”

Mary Lou Henry will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, proud Maw Maw, incredible homemaker, and a woman who gave her whole heart to her family. Her presence filled every room, every gathering, and most notably, her kitchen. Her love will continue to live on in all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 700 North Street, Suite M, Beaumont, Texas 77701, or Shriners Children’s Texas, 815 Market Street, Galveston, Texas 77550.

A gathering of Mrs. Henry’s family and friends will begin at 2:00 p.m., with her funeral service at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Broussard’s, 134 West Buccaneer Drive, Winnie. Her interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Winnie.