Jim Henley

Jim Henley, a proud United States Marine, Vietnam veteran, and servant leader, passed away on May 28th in Johnson City, Tennessee. He was 75 years old.

Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Jim devoted his life to service. First to his country through 23 years of military service in the U.S. Marine Corps, and later to his community through faith, mentorship, and family. He led the God’s Way Home Ministry with compassion and conviction, helping others find purpose, healing, and direction.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He loved to fish, share stories, and spend time with the people who mattered most. Even when his health declined, nothing brought him more joy, or made him feel more alive, than playing with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Marion Henley, and four sons and daughters-in-law and one daughter: James (Wes) and Kristen Henley, James and Crystal Weaver, Phillip and Jewel Henley, Michael Henley and Tonya, and Lesley Whitehead.

He leaves behind 17 grandchildren: Dominic, Valerie, Hope, Bryce, Ana, Zack, Lily, Melanie, Autumn, Issac, Michaela, Lenny, Haley, Mathew, Eric, and two grandchildren he raised as his own, Jamie and Austin. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Lakelynn and Kaisly.

Jim is also survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law: Ronnie and Debbie, Steve, Gary and Dolly Compton; and his sister, Jennifer Kay. He will be lovingly remembered by his “Aunt Granny”, Marie Fortenberry, and special nephews Tim and Ashley Ward, and Joe (Jr.) Casey Ward.

Jim’s life was enriched by dear family friends Lisa McKinney, Betty and Michael Cooper, Debra and John Quinn, Joe Gregory and Wilma Cameron, as well as an abundance of extended family.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Misty Weaver, son Brian Worley, granddaughter Whitney Henley, his parents Betty Newman and Romine Henley, and his brothers Pierce (Jr.) and Mike Compton.

The family wishes to express special thanks to his Mountain Home VA Medical team, Amedisys caregivers, Amy Simpson Crystal Brooks and the rest of the Johnson City Holiday Inn and Staybridge Suites family for their unwavering support and kindness.

Jim will be remembered not only for his service to his country, but for his enduring faith, steady love, and generous spirit. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed.

Family and friends are welcome to join in celebrating the life of Jim at Morris-Baker Funeral Home in Johnson City, TN. Receiving of friends will be this Sunday June 8th from 5:00pm until 7:00 pm and again Monday June 9th from 10:00 am until 12:00pm. A memorial service officiated by longtime friend Nicholas Ray will follow at 12:00pm. He will then be honored for his service to his country with a military honors graveside at Mountain Home National Cemetery in Johnson City, TN at 2:00pm. All attending are asked to meet at the cemetery by 1:45 pm.