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William Henry Obituary

The Big Red Truck
Henry Jr., who was known as Bill or Buddy, had a galaxy of friends and admirers that stretched from the Ladder 24 firehouse on West 31st Street to the paddle tennis courts at wind-swept Jacob Riis Park in the Rockaways. He spent his vacations in places like Brazil, and his free time fixing up houses for people like his mother, Ethel. People would compliment his work; Mr. Henry tended to agree with them. "Yeah," he'd say, "it's a beautiful thing."

His competitive streak ran deep. "He would say to me, you know, I go to more fires than you do," said John Dopwell, a former colleague at Ladder 24, where Firefighter Henry was assigned before moving on to Rescue 1, also in Manhattan.

He also let all kinds of post-conflagration messiness build up on his coat and helmet, as a sign of how hard he worked. "Outside of his family, that job was what he lived for," said another friend, Paul Stewart.

For a while, he moonlighted as a security guard at Laura Belle, a nightclub in Times Square. "I was his boss, but in all honesty, he was my boss," said Joanne O'Connor, the club's director of catering and special events. "He was always telling me what to do."

Once Ms. O'Connor made a demand of her own. "I asked him, when are you going to take me for a ride in the fire truck?" It became a joke between them. Then one day, the huge red Rescue 1 pulled up in front of Laura Belle, packed with firemen on their way back from a call. In clomped Mr. Henry, who said, "Let's go for a ride."
Published by The Gazette on Sep. 17, 2001.

Memories and Condolences
for William Henry

Not sure what to say?





85 Entries

MJ

September 12, 2023

I came across your name today and felt compelled to thank you for your sacrifice. Your heroism is still very much appreciated all these years later. Rest in peace.

Steven Goran

September 12, 2021

Bill the Twenty Years that you have left have gone by so fast. I also remember you from the time that from when you were at Engine 1 and Ladder 24 that when you thought that when somebody else wasn't doing there fare Share of the work that you would let everybody else who worked in the House by writing things up on the Blackboard about them!

Mad Soto

September 12, 2021

Buddy, you are sorely missed. 20 years and it seems like yesterday. May you continue to rest in peace my friend!

Rick B.

September 11, 2021

Through a friend (Vernon J.) I met & visited Buddy and his family while we were in our 20's. At that time, I admired him as a good person. I later gave him higher respect when I learned he became one of New York's finest firefighters. Twenty years later.....I will not forget - Bless you all! -RB- From Queens, NY

Lucille Martin

February 14, 2019

Miss my friend so much. I think of you often and especially when I hear signed, sealed, delivered by Stevie Wonder. Thank you for all the care you gave me. Lucillr

I climbed because he can't <3 Thinking of you and your family today sir.

September 11, 2018

Kathy

September 11, 2018

Never Forgotten!

Steven Goran

April 30, 2018

I've always Remembered Bill as someone who was
Very Attention to Detail,and also as being by
the Rules and by the Book.I'm Very Sorry to see
that the Book has been closed on Him!

Deborah Henry

September 11, 2016

Hi , My name is Deborah Henry and in many ways we are all connected. I would like to offer my thoughts for William Henry Jr. He played a special role by losing his life on this day for his fellow Americans. And as a Henry, although we are not related ,and possibly could be, I would like to honor his memory of being a brave man who died for his country. Gone , but never forgotten. Rest in peace

Holly

April 8, 2015

Hi, my name is Holly and I am from Maryland. I am doing a school project on William Henry Jr. and I would like to learn more information on him. I would like to learn about him as a person so I can honor him in this project.

G Bryan

December 16, 2013

Thank you for lending me your strength and courage today.

Vivian Soto-Hernandez

September 15, 2013

You are always with us in spirit and thoughts. You are missed.

Ellen Henry

September 11, 2013

...and still you live on in our hearts. We miss and think about you every day.

Forever Loved,

JANICE DASTE SINKLER

September 11, 2013

SO SO SPECIAL, A PERSON WITH THE BIGGEST HEART, WILL NEVER FORGET YOU!!!!!!!

Your Sister

October 2, 2012

Never Forget

Rob Weaver

September 11, 2011

I'm a firefighter with Evergreen Fire Rescue in Evergreen, Colorado, and participated in the Denver Stair Climb today. We climbed 110 stories to honor and remember the 343 who fell 10 years ago. The climb is open to 343 firefighters, and we each carry a photo of one of the 343 firefighters that lost their lives. Today I had the honor and privilege to carry a photo of William. I was just doing some research online, and am humbled by his dedication, courage, and devotion to helping others.

Ernestine Washington

September 11, 2011

Missing your smile and laughter sitting here thinking how you are up there redecorating HEAVEN and did a good job at it....I am wearing FDNY RESCUE-1 T-Shirt in honor of you..and Always

Love Your Sister

September 11, 2011

Never Forget.

Melissa Studds

September 10, 2011

I had the privilege of carrying a memorial card for William up 110 flights of stairs, alongside firefighters and other first responders last weekend in San Diego. We each climbed in memory of and to honor the fallen heroes of Sept 11, 2001. My thoughts and prayers are with the Henry family on the eve of the 10th anniversary. We will never forget.

Vivian Soto

September 10, 2011

In loving memory of a wonderful person and friend. I miss you and think of you always. May this candlelight continue to shine on your family for the courage and strength you have passed on to them and us.

Madeline Soto-Figueroa

September 10, 2011

Buddy you remain in our thoughts and in our prayers as well as your family. Sincerely, Maddy & Jack

Steve Cohen

September 9, 2011

Buddy, these past ten years have been rough- especially when passing by our old stomping grounds, the paddle board courts on Beach 103 Street. I miss the games. I miss the laughter. Mostly, I miss your friendship. I will always remember.

JORDAN H

January 28, 2011

WILLIAM IM SO INSPIRED BY YOUR HEROISM ON 9/11. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOUR BRAVERY ON 9/11. I PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY EVERY NIGHT. GOD BLESS YOU HERO. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU GAVE ON SEPT 11TH.

Love Your Sister

September 11, 2009

Courage Remembered.

Mary Anne Matys

September 11, 2009

My fourth graders are going to get to know Buddy today, with information from his sister. As I teach 9-11 today, please know that your family is in my heart and prayers.

Steven Weiss

August 3, 2009

I knew bill from living next door from the firehouse. He was a very happy guy and everyone should not that about him. He left this world with a smile despite the circumstances Im sure. See you on the other side...

airam onerrac

June 15, 2009

i have actually met and spent some time with this man at home during the weekends and he is a very nice man. he is not only a hero, but he is a life saver, and also i could not have met any one better for my mom than this man, an he is a happy maker for every one. my sisters, my brother, and i all feel happy when they see each other. we hope that they can be happy with each other!!!

Gabriella Carrier

May 4, 2009

though i never knew this heroic man i was assigned to research his courageous actions at 9/11 for a school project, if anyone is able to contact me for more detials about this heroic man please email me at [email protected]

C/O #316 C/O #316

October 3, 2008

i just wanted to let the friends and family know that i never new this man but will never forget his name because i was at ground zero on sunday 9-16-01 and was there when they had made a possitive id that william l henry a m.o.s was id i spent the day helping at g/z and then later went to the forensic lab to help there. god bless you mr henry and your family. c/o #316

Paul Saueracker

September 15, 2008

To the family of William L. Henry Jr.
I just wanted to take a moment and let you know that I took part in the memorial stair climb in Denver, CO on Sept 11th, 2008.A total of 343 firefighters from Denver area fire departments and surrounding areas climbed the Qwest building in Denver, CO 2 times in honor of those that gave the ultimate sacrifice on September 11th.
All those that participated in the memorial climb took up a photo with them of a fallen firefighter. I had the honor and distinct privilege of carrying a photo of William L Henry Jr. with me a total of 110 stories. I want to let you know that he is not forgotten. I will keep hold of that photo for as long as I live in a safe place Every time I participate in the memorial stair climb, I will carry his photo with me in honor of him.. I will post the photo of my helmet that has his photo as soon as I get it.
Thank you
Paul Saueracker
Evergreen Fire Rescue
Evergreen, CO

Brenda Bright

September 11, 2008

Hey Buddy,
You are loved and missed by all. Especially Brenda Bright, Rahmel and Jamilah Hamilton . May God be with you and your family.

Tammi and Ilyasah Long-Hamilton

September 11, 2008

Hi Buddy,
We miss you. We were blessed to experience a person of your kind spirited nature. We thank God for providing someone with such strength and the love for life. You are a true hero.

Baby Sis

September 11, 2008

Hey Bro!

I have memories in my pocket; they rattle among the change....
You are in my thoughts always but especially today. Love & Miss You

Mary Anne Matys-Rohde

September 11, 2008

Hi Buddy:
Just want you to know that a great bunch of 6th graders in Massachusetts know all about your spirit and your bravery, thanks to your sister. We are keeping her close in our thoughts today, and you are always in prayers. We're sending you a whole bunch of hugs!

Nigel Jarvis

August 19, 2008

Hey Buddy,
Just saying "HI" from the sandbox. Man it is hot as heck here, I miss the hell out of you. I know everything is all right with you

Alan Skerrett

September 11, 2007

Bud,
I think of you practically every day.I never remove the bracelet your mother
gave me to remember you.I trust that the people who signed this guest book,
remember you as the caring and giving person you were. You glowed with love.
Sharing it was a big part of who you were. Wherever God is, I know you are
with Him/Her.

Mary Anne Matys-Rohde

September 11, 2007

I am a teacher in central Massachusetts and I have been wearing Firefighter Henry's bracelet for some time. Today I am going to tell my fourth graders about the efforts of the FDNY and show them my bracelet...it's a new class and I do that each September Eleventh. I am proud to give him and his family my prayerful support.
I am planning a day trip into the city next month and hope to walk by his station.

Billy in between Lt. Mojica (left) and Lloyd.

September 5, 2007

Billy and Lloyd Infanzon at a Manhattan All-Hands Fire in 1999.

September 5, 2007

marian miller

August 21, 2007

God always choose his best first. I am priviledged to know that you were and you are one on them. Gone but never fogotten. God bless you in heaven.

RONNY SIMON

August 20, 2007

I AM TRULY BLESSED TO HAVE SHARED A MOMENT AND A LAUGH WITH YOU. CONTINUE TO SHINE YOUR LIGHT FOR ALL THAT IS RIGHT..YOU ARE A BLESSING!!!!

Lisa Lewis

August 19, 2007

To my cousin and friend: I thank God for the memories. You will continue to live in my heart. I love and miss you.

CURTIS YOUNG SR

August 18, 2007

BUDDY WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU AND THANKS FOR ALL OF YOUR KIND WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT YOU HAVE GIVEN ME ONE LOVE BIG GUY. FROM ME AND ALL YOUR BOYZ AT KENNEDY ELECTRICAL SUPPLY CORP.

Shavonne Baez

August 18, 2007

To my buddy, You were always in my corner with a wise crack or joke to make my day! Thank you for everything. Most will never realize your greatness but all who knew you knows you would not have had life any other way! Love you always! I'll always be your biggest fan!

ERNESTINE WASHINGTON

August 16, 2007

TO MY FRIEND BUDDY WE ALL MISS YOU SO MUCH AND I THINK ABOUT YOU ALWAYS AND I WANT YOU TO NO I WEAR YOUR C0MPANY T SHIRT(RESCUE 1)WITH PRIDE.THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER ALWAYS IN MY PRAY...

Maddy Figueroa

August 14, 2007

Jack and I are always thinking of our Buddy. We never forget the kind person he was. Buddy continues to hold a special place in our hearts. You are always in our prayers dear Buddy.

Ellen C. Henry

August 13, 2007

It's a nice, sunny and hot day, Buddy. Just the way you liked it, Big Brother. My tears still flow. Love You Forever, Ellen

Deirdre Henry

December 13, 2006

Oh cousin My cousin, that gave me my name Deirdre Ann Henry. When I was young I didn't like my name and wanted to change it when I got older. But, as I grew older I became to appreciated my name. Besides, I was definitely blessed with the name given to me by "THE GREAT ONE"
Love Ya, Always & Forever "My Cuz"

Kristine

November 6, 2006

As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.

P Tabbernor

November 3, 2006

In remembrance....

Janie D.

September 28, 2006

Thanks for saving lifes in 9-11-01 your a hero.

carla

September 19, 2006

william, you sound as if you lived life to its fullest and are remembered with honor and pride. thank you for all that you gave. you were so brave. my deepest sympathy to your family,

Maddy Soto-Figueroa

September 5, 2006

My husband Jack and I (Maddy) had the great pleasure of meeting Buddy over 10 years ago at Jacob Riis Park playing paddle. Buddy "always had next". He was a great person and has been missed greatly. His spirit continues to live on the courts of Riis Park. We love you my friend!

Anthony Ewing

December 5, 2005

It's an honored to get to know what you did & what you stand for.Your lagacy will last in those you have touch........

James Johnson

September 11, 2005

God Bless You...

Baseemah Musawwir

August 4, 2003

Buddy was my cousin, but to all he was a great shining spirit. May GOD bless you with peace in the next life. I know GOD is pleased with the life you led. You will always be missed and loved!

John Heinzig

October 23, 2002

Dear Family of William Henry,

On 9/11/02 I rode in a Commemorative Parade along with 7,241 other motorcyclists in honor of those who were lost in the attack last year. I chose Willie's name from a basket containing all the Firefighter's names. I was truly honored to represent him in our parade. The patriotism that was displayed by both the riders and the citizens of our community was extremely touching to me. I have tried for a month now to find out how to get this message to you.I have the wristband I wore with Willie's name on it taped to my computer at work. Not a day goes by that I don't look at it and reflect on what a great service he provided to the people he protected and experience feelings of sadness that such a great man has perished. I hope you are able to get this message and please feel free to write back. I would be more than happy to send the wristband to you if you would like.



Respectfully, John Heinzig

Det. Nigel Jarvis

September 19, 2002

I am member of the New York City Police Department and I am still a good friend of William "BUDDY" Henry Jr. and his family. On 9/11 was a day I would never forget. When it happened i knew he was down here and I looked for him and his company. Everybody said they were gone but i kept looking. It was hard to face that God had took such a great man from us. I was so angry at God for letting this happen. All of the people that knew him had nothing bad to say about him. I would think back to when he would call me on the nextel screaming about a computer problem, or we would see who could get the better gadget. After months of being upset i see why God took him. He was an angel that touched many hearts and his time here was up. God had another job for him elsewhere. I love him as a friend and he will never be missed because he is still here with us!!!!!!!!!

Sister Marion Etzel

September 14, 2002

I picked out the name of William Henry, Jr. from a huge fishbowl of hundreds of names at my local church in November 2001 and have continued to pray weekly for the families and friends of Mr. Henry ever since. How wonderful to find out about this heroic person and all who mourn his loss. God bless us all.

Corey Lambert

September 10, 2002

I was in NY to watch the U.S. Open a couple weeks ago and I went with my aunt and uncle. They were so excited to take me to Rockaway to show me the Paddle Tennis that goes on there on the weekends. When we got there the usually barren courts were full. We later found out that this was a tournament for "Buddy" and that he had died in 9/11. I never met him but I met his friends at the tournament and I can tell he was a great man who is sorely missed. God Bless Buddy and his family.

Matt Heiser

September 10, 2002

God bless William Henry for his heroic efforts!!!!

Julie Gunter

September 10, 2002

Dear God, Thank you for this man who gave his life bravely helping others in a catastrophe worse than any of us can even imagine. Wrap your loving arms around his family to comfort them. In Jesus' name we pray...Amen.

Hector Sanchez

September 9, 2002

william henry tanks for sacrificing

yourlife for other people.I will

olweys remember you.You are a good

man.



Hector sanchez

Becky Bowman

May 30, 2002

I was a Red Cross Disaster Relief worker in September and, by coincidence, met a bus driver who grew up with Buddy. The driver's name was also Buddy. He had to wait for a while before continuing his route and brought out Buddy's obituary. It was well worn and he cried over the loss of his childhood friend. He said his mother used to say, "There go my two little Buddies." William Henry made a life long impression on Buddy the bus driver - and on me. I returned to work for a month in Feb. and visited the Firefighter's Memorial. I only knew one name and one face. It was William Henry. I pray that William's family will one day find comfort and peace.

Marion Mulcahy

May 9, 2002

To The Family and Loved Ones of William:



Just today I purchased a braclet with William's name on it. I want you to know that I will wear this braclet proudly and when asked about it I will tell everyone about William's bravery and how he lost his life doing what he loved which was to help an save others.



May he rest in peace.



Marion M., Floral Park, NY

Angie Campbell

April 30, 2002

**********God Bless You**********

Rob Wells

March 28, 2002

To the Henry Family,

I am a firefighter in Orange County, FL. I ordered and received A 911 Bracelet with Bill's name on it. I will wear it in honor of him till the day I pass. This do in remembrance of him and all the fellow brothers who lost there lives that day.

Yours in service,

Robert L Wells

Sta.28 C-shift

Orange County Fire Rescue

Gerald Jordan

March 16, 2002

I saw a picture of an individual whom I used to play basketball with. He( we called him Ken) looks like the named individual here. I don't know for certain because I never knew by the name of William. But I saw his picture featured in the documentary "9/11" that aired on TV. If this is the same person or even if is not, I extend my condolences to the Henry family.

March 13, 2002

Dear William,

You had a heart of a lion and the courage of three.



May God bless the Henry Family.

Dora Fogle

March 3, 2002

Your name I will carry till I walk no more. In rememberence of all you, and FDNY Rescue 1 has done. All our love thoughts and prayers for all in New York.

Always,

Dora

February 2, 2002

DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEUTIFUL YOUNG HERO FIREMAN..WILLIAM L.HENRY JR. AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01...MAY JESUS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN.AMEN

Teresa Jahn

December 29, 2001

What a great story of Bill saying,"Let's go for a ride." We thank Bill for dedicating his life to help others as a firefighter. Such a dedication comes with a brave, warm and caring heart filled with love for his fellow man. May Bill's courage, life and love continue living on in those who love him and in those he has helped. May Bill's words- "It's a beautiful thing" be used often by his friends and relatives. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Bill. Our hearts cry with you.

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

Lisa

December 3, 2001

I recently bought a MERCY B.A.N.D With Williams Henry's name on it,

I feel proud and honored to wear it, I pray for his family and him daily, My heart goes out to all the men and women that gave there life's to protect US,



With Love From Lisa

Jewelnel Davis

November 30, 2001

To the Henry Family,

May God continue to keep you strong and bless the ties that bind you.

Octavia

November 29, 2001

May God Bless him and comfort the family that loved him.

Lisa Battee

October 30, 2001

I thank God for this heart to live, and heart to die. May your legacy continue through your family and friends.

Nolan Watley

October 21, 2001

I knew Buddy personally. I had not seen him in over 20 years and I did not ecen know it was him until I mentionned the name of his mother and sister and someone told me that they saw an article in Newsday. My memeories are fond and I remember him as an easy going guy who would laugh at my jokes. I also wish his mother Ethel my condolences as she is a grat woman who commands respect.I am proud of Buddy but not surprised and he had the character to be a giver not a taker.

Elizabeth Bennett

October 6, 2001

I am sorry for William's loss. My sympathy to those who loved him....

Clara Evans

October 5, 2001

To the family and friends of William Henry:



I did not know him. But people in New York are living because of his bravery. I am grateful to him and for him. We have lost so much, and so many. I pray for strength for all of us.

john hart

October 4, 2001

May the Angels lead you into Paradise. God Bless us all.

susan schneider

October 2, 2001

William Henry, we will remember you.

Barbara Bolin

September 24, 2001

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

WILLIAM HENRY,A TRUE HERO,MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

McKenna Cole

September 19, 2001

Americans will never forget your sacrifice, for no greater love exists than the one that leads a man to lay down his life for others. America is a better place because of your unselfish dedication to fellow citizens. May you rest in peace.

Veronica Ayres

September 19, 2001

My heart goes out to the family and frinds. May you know his passing was not in vain, but acting unselfishly, to save others. For this reason he will always be remembered as a Hero to this great country we live in. God Bless!!!

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