Henry Walter Hefley, Jr., age 81, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital, leaving behind a life marked by devotion to family, education, and the many young people he guided throughout his career.

He was born on April 25, 1945, in Humboldt, Tennessee, the son of the late Henry Walter Hefley, Sr, and Virginia Hazel Sowell Hefley and spent his life rooted in the values of hard work, loyalty, and service to others. He was a proud graduate of Humboldt High School and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin, beginning a lifelong connection to the communities and schools that shaped him and that he, in turn, helped shape.

Henry devoted his professional life to education, where he served as a teacher and coach at both Humboldt High School and Humboldt Junior High School. He taught Health and Science, and he also coached with the football team, roles that reflected both his knowledge and his steady encouragement. He was respected by students, colleagues, and fellow coaches alike for his commitment, his discipline, and the genuine care he showed to those around him. He understood the importance of mentorship and took pride in helping young people build confidence, character, and a strong foundation for the future. He was a member of the Church at Sugar Creek in Humboldt.

His influence extended far beyond the classroom and athletic field, as he touched many lives through his example, his kindness, and his unwavering support for the people he loved.

Family was at the center of Henry's life. He was married to Carolyn McMinn Hefley for 59 years, and their long marriage was a testament to enduring love, partnership, and shared devotion. Together they built a family that brought him great pride and joy. He is survived by his son, Christopher Hefley; his daughter, Amy Hefley Lewis, and her husband, Kevin; and his grandson, Connor Lewis, who was a cherished part of his life. He is also survived by his brothers, Mike Hefley and his wife, Leonie, and Keith Hefley and his wife, Michelle. He leaves behind a loving extended family of nieces and nephews, including Nicholas Hefley and his wife, Alexandra, Eric Hefley, Angela Adams and her husband, Jason, Jonathan Hefley and his wife, Ana, Kevin Hefley and his wife, Elise, and Alison Dagostaro and her husband, Luigi.

SERVICES: A time with family and friends will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. in the Madison Room at Arrington Funeral Directors. The family will also receive friends on Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. with a service to follow at 2:00 in the sanctuary of the Church at Sugar Creek with Dr. Greg McFadden officiating.

Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.

The family is requesting that memorial contributions be directed to Gideon's International, 30 Sutton Place, Jackson, TN 38305.

Henry's life was one of steady dedication, and he will be remembered for the many ways he served others with patience and grace. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the students he encouraged, the athletes he coached, and the community he helped strengthen through years of faithful service. Though he will be deeply missed, the memory of his life and the impact of his example will remain a source of comfort and pride to all who knew him.