With much love and sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Ernestine McHenry on May 30, 2015. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, and will be deeply missed by all. Her 97 years of life were lived to the fullest, and with much happiness.
Ernestine was born on July 25, 1917 to Harry and Mattie Sickles in Porterville, California. She grew up on a ranch with her three siblings, and attended grade school in Springville until her family moved to Porterville where she graduated from high school in 1935 and also attended Porterville Junior College.
She worked for two years as a secretary and bookkeeper for a Chevrolet and home appliance dealership. After being set up on a blind date, she married the love of her life, Marvin McHenry, on April 8, 1939. Once they were married, Ernestine and Marvin moved to Dos Palos and worked together running McHenry Butane and Gas Service. Additionally, During World War II, Ernestine proudly performed her patriotic and civic duties by spotting planes flying over the area.
On October 28, 1942, Ernestine and Marvin became the parents of a beautiful daughter, Sharon Lynne. Ernestine was a proud homemaker and parent, and devoted her time to her family. Once Sharon entered school, Ernestine was active in the P.T.A. (Parent Teacher Association), as well as the organization Rainbows for Girls.
Ernestine enjoyed being active in community organizations. She held a variety of offices for Eastern Star, and in 1960 was elected president of the Dos Palos Floral Designer. During her term of presidency, the Christmas Bazaar was formed and continued for 30 years selling beautiful Christmas arrangements to local and out-of-town customers. Ernestine was an active member of the Methodist Church, Hospital Assistance League, and she belonged to the same bridge club for over 60 years. Ernestine belonged to a Gourmet Dinner Club which brought years of joy looking for new recipes and providing entertainment to cherished friends in her home. Ernestine also enjoyed gardening, and took great pride in the beautiful flowers that grew in her yard.
Ernestine was preceded in death by her husband (Marvin McHenry) of 47 years, her parents Harry and Mattie (Sickles), her brother Leland (Sickles), and her sisters Bernie (Hamby) and Doris (Board). She is survived by her daughter Sharon (Hugh Montrose), her granddaughters Jill (Todd Plimpton), Shauna (Ed Bake), and Shelli Schroeder. She also leaves her legacy to her great-grandchildren: Eric, Ben, Scott, Kate, Abby, Owen, Tristin and Emili. Additionally, she is survived by nieces Margaret (Hamby), Joanie (Wegner) and nephew Jeff (Board).
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, June 12th at 12:30 pm at Whitehurst Funeral Chapel in Dos Palos, California, 2350 Blossom St. Dos Palos, Ca 93620. Burial at the Dos Palos Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the United Methodist Church in Dos Palos, the Rhett Syndrome Foundation (4600 Devitt Drive, Cincinnati, OH, 45246), or a charity of your choice.