Gailey Alvin Henderson

Gailey Alvin Henderson, 97, of Williamstown, WV, passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at his home. He was born August 11, 1927, in Roane County, West Virginia a son of John M. Henderson and Tressie Mae Summers Henderson.

Gailey joined the Navy at the age of 17 and served the duration of the War and upon his return he returned to school and graduated from Doddridge County High School in 1947. He had worked for Shell Chemical in Belpre, was one of their first employees, and he retired in 1984. He volunteered on the Appalachian Trail and had received a 1000 Hours Award. His hobby was attending auctions and collecting antique tools and gas engines. He could always be found at antique engine shows with his tool display, “What Is It and What Does It Do?”

He was married to Ellen Louise Pratt for 73 years before her passing on March 21, 2024. He is survived by his sons, Randy (Nancy) Henderson and Ron (Swanna) Henderson; granddaughters Tisha (Rodney) Jackson, Jenni (Adam) Strimer, Kelli Henderson and great grandchildren: FaeLynn Beall, Kate Strimer, Paige Strimer and Andrew Strimer. He is also survived by his brother Reese (Mabel) Henderson and nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Don Henderson and brother, Paul Henderson.

Visitation will be held on Thursday (Oct. 10) from 2-4 and 6-8 at McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday at Riverview Cemetery. Messages of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.Lankfordfh.com.

A special “Thank You” to Amedisys Hospice of Vienna, and the staffs of Home Helpers and Pro Careers (Chelsea, Amanda, Sara, Lora and Charlie) for all the excellent care they gave Gailey.