James Keith Henley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, James Keith Henley, who left us at the age of 74. Keith was preceded in death by his parents James Cecil and Marion Gibson Henley and daughter-in-law Shelley Henley. He is survived by his children, Eric (Lisa) Henley, Chris Henley, Crystal (Cylis) Wilson, Ashley (Kyle) Evans and Jake (Alesha) Henley; 14 grandchildren, Tristen, Danika, Joshua, Serene, Brianna, Christian, Alleigh, Jace, Tucker, Adalyn, Kassidy, Kolson, Lilly and Charlie, as well as 2 great grandchildren; brother David Henley and many cousins, other relatives, and friends. Keith was a proud United States Army Veteran who served and was later honorably discharged at the rank of Specialist 4. Keith embodied a deep sense of strength, resilience, and loyalty throughout his life. After the army, he embarked on a career as a certified crane operator for over 25 years that carried him and his family to many parts of the United States and to foreign countries in support of the U.S. Military. Keith was known for his sharp wit and sarcastic sense of humor-always ready with a remark that could make you laugh when you least expected it. Although he grew up on the gulf coast, Keith was no fan of fresh vegetables or seafood, especially anything "green", even though one of his first jobs was working on a shrimp boat. Keith had many talents: accomplished bowler, skilled country and western dance instructor, and slalom skier; he also obtained his private pilot's license and became a certified scuba diver that led to many underwater adventures, even coming face to face with a seal while diving in California. Keith later became a longtime member of a local motorcycle club, The Southern Cruisers and participated in many fundraising rides for Toys4Tots and local orphanages. Needless to say, Keith had a passion for adventure and the open road, finding freedom on his motorcycle and peace beneath the waves while scuba diving. Whether riding or diving, Keith lived life on his own terms and embraced every moment with a bold spirit. Above all, he was a father, Pappy, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed and forever loved. His legacy of humor, courage, and individuality will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing he is at peace. Thank you to Jake Henley, Kyle Evans, Kody Evans, Brandon Hamilton, Tyler Scott, Chris Wetzel for honoring James's life by serving as pallbearers. Family and Friends are invited to a Funeral Service in the Chapel of Holder Wells and Coastal Funeral Home 12800 Highway 613 Moss Point, Mississippi 39562 on Friday April 10, 2026. A visitation will begin at 10:00 am with services beginning at 11:00 am. A burial will follow at Griffin Cemetery 2700 Dantzler St. Moss Point, Mississippi 39563.

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James Keith Henley

January 3, 1952 - April 4, 2026