Min. Polly Ann Henry

Love, Faith, and Service With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Minister Polly Ann Henry, born Polly Ann Peterson. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and pillar of her community. She peacefully departed this life on February 5, 2025, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and tireless service. Early Life and Family Born on October 16, 1937, in Clinton Township, Sampson County, North Carolina, Minister Polly was the beloved second child of Robert Winslow Peterson and Azzie Lee Peterson. Her faith was nurtured at Hayes Chapel Baptist Church in Clinton, North Carolina, where she developed her spiritual foundation through serving in the Choir, Usher Board and many other ministries that have guided her life. She was educated in the Sampson County Public School system and graduated from Garland Colored High School in 1957. Having been educated in this system she carried a deep sense of wisdom, determination, and purpose. A Love Rooted in Faith and Devotion During high school, she met the love of her life, Bobby G. Henry Sr., their bond strengthened by faith and devotion. They were married on October 30, 1957, at First Rock Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., while Bobby served on active duty in the U.S. Navy. Their love flourished as they built a home, first in the District of Columbia and later in Landover, Maryland, where they raised their four cherished children: Bobby George, Jr., Deborah Denise, Sharita Ann, and Cruzita Kimberly. Their nearly 68-year union was a testament to faithfulness, resilience, and God’s divine plan. A Life of Learning, Service, And Dedication Minister Polly’s passion for education and service was evident throughout her life. She pursued higher learning at Washington Technical Institute, now known as the University of the District of Columbia, earning an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Recreational Leadership. Later she completed studies in gerontology and received certifications in leisure services and supervisory training. Her career was dedicated to uplifting senior citizens, beginning in 1965 with the U.S. Department of Recreation, which later became the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation. Rising to Center Director and Supervisor at six city centers, she developed thriving senior programs that enriched countless lives. Her leadership was instrumental in the Operation Bridge Program, Golden Aged Choir, Senior Olympics, and International Senior Citizens Harvest Festival. Minister Polly’s outstanding contributions earned recognition from the U.S. Department of Labor, Washington Urban League, and National Safety Council, among others. She received numerous awards, including a Meritorious Public Service Award from Mayor Marion Barry Jr. in 1995, honoring her thirty years of dedicated service to the District of Columbia. Adding to this rare distinction, Mayor Walter E. Washington, the first Mayor of the District of Columbia, serving from 1967 to 1979, personally recognized her for completing thirty years, eight months, and twenty days of service. He celebrated her loyalty, hard work, and dedication, stating that her commitment was more than just a job, it was a heartfelt mission that changed thousands of lives. Minister Polly’s remarkable career was built on a foundation of service, compassion, and steadfast dedication to uplifting the lives of others. Her legacy of love and leadership will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her. Dedication to Faith and Ministry Minister Polly’s belief in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. On March 7, 1963, under the leadership of her father-in-law, the late Rev. George F. Henry, she became a charter member of New Birth Baptist Church. She served faithfully in many roles, including Deaconess, Church Clerk, and Chairperson of the Missionary Society. She actively contributed to church committees, choirs, and community outreach programs. Her faith journey led her to answer the call to ministry, and on September 18, 2005, she became one of the first women to be licensed as a minister at New Birth Baptist Church, delivering her first sermon that same day. She continued her biblical studies, earning numerous certificates from Evangel Cathedral Bible School and Shaw University Divinity School. Her work extended beyond the church, contributing to Jericho Christian Academy, serving at the Center of Hope Food Bank, being the keynote speaker for the Woodstream Church Women’s Fall Retreat, having an active membership with the Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission and engaging in global missionary efforts. Minister Polly’s life was a testament to faith, service, and unfaltering dedication to God’s work. Whether in ministry, education, or community service, she remained a steadfast servant of the Lord, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, devotion, and spiritual leadership that will continue to inspire generations. An Artist’s Touch Minister Polly’s hands were rarely still, always crafting and giving to others. She was a gifted artist, creating ceramics, quilts, floral arrangements, and heartfelt keepsakes. Her creativity was a reflection of her love for family and community, ensuring every special occasion was adorned with a personal touch. Minister Polly’s creations were not just art, they were expressions of love, reflections of her generous spirit, and gifts that will continue to be treasured by those whose lives she touched. A Lasting Legacy Minister Polly Ann Henry was a woman of immense strength whose heart overflowed with faith, love, and a deep commitment to service. She embodied grace, wisdom, and selflessness, touching the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Winslow and Azzie Lee Peterson; her brother, Hubert Peterson; and beloved in-laws, Rev. George Franklin and Mary Lou Henry, David Hammond, Harry Henry, Artis Whitley (Mack), Johnny Henry, Loretta Simmons (Emmett), Sidney Henry, Stanley “Terry” Henry, and Angela Henry. She leaves behind a loving and devoted family: her beloved husband, Bobby G. Henry Sr.; her cherished sister, Ella D. Hammond; her loving children, Elder Bobby G. Henry, Jr., Esq. (Debra), Deborah D. Mason, Sharita A. Lyle, and Cruzita K. Henry Bryant; loving in-laws, Sgt. Major (Ret.) Ronald Henry, Clara Henry, and Vivian Harvey (Ronald); her niece/adopted daughter, Helena M. Lisane; her adoring grandchildren, Christopher W. Mason (Kristen), Travis G. Mason, Shaunta D. Mason, Bobby G. Henry, III (Nakia), Stanley F. Henry, William A. Lyle, Winton A. Lyle (Jordan), Philandieus Bryant III, Charles A. Henry, Chandler M. Bryant, Chelesea M. Bryant, and Camryn M. Bryant; her great-grandchild, “Sweet” Bailey Marie Henry; her nieces, Saundra Davis, Glenda Hammond, Tina Williams and Connie Hammond and nephew David Hammond; her great-niece and nephew, Courtney Lisane-Sterling (Troy) and Glendelle Lisane (Mercie); and her great-great nephew, Tristan Sterling. She also leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and dear friends whose lives she touched in countless ways. Her legacy is one of faith, love, and service. She has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. Though she has departed from this world, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she cherished. Her kindness, wisdom, and grace will never be forgotten. Now, she rests in the eternal embrace of her Heavenly Father.

Tributes

Min. Polly Ann Henry

October 16, 1938 - February 5, 2025