Shirley Henry, of Northville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, in Northville. She was born on January 16, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, and lived a life defined by a deep commitment to education, faith, family, and lifelong learning.

She graduated from Dearborn High School in 1949 and went on to earn her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in English from Wayne State University. In 1981, she completed her doctorate in Literary Education, also from Wayne State.

A dedicated educator, she served as an English teacher and Department Head at Northern and Kettering High Schools in East Detroit for 27 years. She also taught courses at the University of Michigan–Dearborn, Marygrove College, and Saginaw Valley State University. Even after retirement, she continued mentoring student teachers, sharing her wisdom and experience with the next generation of educators.

A published writer, she also led the high school newspaper at the school where she taught, helping it earn numerous awards. Her advocacy for literacy and her belief that every child deserves an education were central to her life's work. She was a spirited, generous, and wise woman who encouraged others to keep learning from life's challenges and to rely on the power of prayer to get through them.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She held numerous leadership and service roles within the Presbyterian Church, including serving on the Committee on Ministry. She was also actively involved in the American Association of University Women and served as President of the Michigan Council of Teachers.

Outside of her professional and community commitments, she enjoyed golfing, playing the piano, reading, and continuing her own education. Above all, she cherished her family and was especially proud of her grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughters, Carol Maise and Sue Jugan (Jeffery); grandchildren, Eric Maise (Kaitlyn), Kelly Heise (Erich), Zach Jugan (Matti), Nick Jugan (Cara), and Ben Jugan (Gabi); brother-in-law Mark Henry (Shirley); and sister-in-law Sally Sutcliffe (Bill). She was preceded in death by her husband, Alan Henry; parents, Harold and Marie Sutcliffe; parents-in-law, Ken and Ruth Henry; and brother, Bill Sutcliffe.

A memorial service will be held this fall at First Presbyterian Church of Northville, 200 E Main St, Northville, MI 48167. The date and time are pending and will be announced when finalized.