Shirley Doris Henry, of Novi, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026. 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 the Detroit Public Schools as an English teacher and department head at Northern and Kettering High Schools 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. She served as President of the Michigan Council of Teachers and was also actively involved in the American Association of University Women.

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 in her churches, Littlefield Presbyterian in Dearborn and First Presbyterian Church Northville, as well as with the Presbytery of Detroit, including serving on the Committee on Ministry. Her latest role was serving as an elder until last year.

Outside of her professional and community commitments, she enjoyed golfing, gardening, knitting, 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 loving daughters, Carol Maise and Sue Jugan (Jeff); grandchildren, Eric Maise (Kaitlyn), Kelly Heise (Erich), Zach Jugan (Matti), Nick Jugan (Cara), and Ben Jugan (Gabi); great-grandchildren, Jack, Francine, Beatrice and August; sister-in law Sally Sutcliffe (the late Bill) and, brother-in-law Mark Henry (Shirley). She was preceded in death by her husband, Alan Henry; and her parents, Harold and Marie Sutcliffe.

A gathering of family and friends will take place on Sunday, October 4th starting at 3:00 PM followed by a memorial service at 4:00 PM, at First Presbyterian Church of Northville, 200 E Main St, Northville, MI 48167.

Donations in Shirley's memory may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Northville, Memorial Fund (Mission & Outreach)
-OR- Bridgepointe Non Profit Reading Program of Detroit, via PayPal or Venmo: