Mahlon Henry

(From Parker Mortuary)

Mahlon E. Henry, age 97, Joplin, passed away on Tuesday, June 6, 2017 at Freeman West Hospital.

Mahlon was born November 22, 1919 in Carthage, son of the late Ivan and Eva Hall Henry. He served in the United States Army during World War II where he was stationed overseas for two years. He served 317 days in combat, five invasions, and received five battle stars and a bronze star for his service. He married Marion Hain on February 5, 1944 in Springfield; she preceded him in death on May 27, 1985. He then married Margaret Hite Burdick April 12, 1986; she preceded him in death September 15, 2002. In addition to his parents and wives, he was preceded in death by a son, Ned Lee Henry on February 26, 2007, and his brother, Rex Henry, and his sister, June Carter.

Mahlon moved to Joplin in 1955 from Springfield, Missouri, and owned and operated a linen rental business for over 20 years. He then worked with his brother at Joplin Janitor Supply for 16 years. After this, Mahlon went to work for Parker Mortuary where he worked for another 15 years, and enjoyed his time helping others. Mahlon was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, and was also a proud member of the local VFW, DAV, and American Legion.

Survivors include his children, Jane Melton of Douglasville, Georgia, Carole Diehm and husband Randy of Olathe, Kansas, Bette Harris and husband Randy of Diamond, Missouri, Evanna Frey and husband Tom of Joplin, Missouri, Gregg Henry of Joplin; seven grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Funeral service will be Monday, June 12, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Gregory Mech officiating. Interment will follow in Osborne Memorial Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at Parker Mortuary on Sunday, June 11, 2017 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Mahlon requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Martin Luther School, or the Joplin Blind Association care of Parker Mortuary.