1931-2026
Lois Eleanor Henry, 94, of Big Run, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Penn Highlands DuBois.
She was born at home in Cloe on October 6, 1931, a daughter of the late Glenn Orlin Bish and Jennie Catherine (Cochran) Bish.
Mrs. Henry grew up attending St. Phillips United Methodist Church in Big Run, she also attended the Christian Church in Big Run and the Presbyterian Church in Punxsutawney. She was a member of the church choir and was a Sunday School teacher.
On June 18, 1955, she married her childhood friend who became the love of her life, Lt. Col. Charles Augustus Lindbergh Henry. He preceded her in death 3 days before their 56th anniversary in 2011. They had a great marriage, created wonderful memories and raised a family together.
Mrs. Henry was a schoolteacher in the Punxsutawney Area School District for over thirty years. Many students learned to speak Spanish, French, English, and Latin through her patience and love of teaching. She was kind and inspired countless students over the years to pursue languages and teaching. To her family, she was very encouraging and was their number one cheerleader; she inspired them to utilize their creative outlets and follow their dreams. She was extraordinarily proud of her grandchildren. She was instrumental in the Big Run Free Militia; she handcrafted many of the uniforms, outfits and flags. It was an event that her entire family took part in as well as many
other Big Run citizens. Lois was humble and often worked in the background, never seeking recognition; her satisfaction was serving others and inspiring others to become the best version of themselves.
Lois is survived by three children, Charles Lynn (Marsha) Henry of Sharon, Pamela (Gary) Smith of Emlenton and Jennie (Robert) Henry Boyt of Manassas, Virginia; nine grandchildren, Joseph (Logan) Vairo of Savannah, Georgia, Glenn Eli (Amanda Peck) Cincinnati, Ohio, Patrick (Karen Davis) Henry of North Dakota, Catherine Rose (Luke) Gonzalez of Johnstown, Jedidiah Smith of Emlenton, Caitlin Smith of Rimersburg, Gabrielle Smith of Rimersburg, Elizabeth Anne Boyt, and Josie Marie Boyt of Manassas, Virginia; one great grandson, Ewan Grover Henry. Preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles and two brother, Francis and Harry Bish.
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no visitation. Arrangements entrusted to Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Big Run. Online condolences may be made at www.shumakerfh.com
