George Thomas Henley, affectionately known as "Doodler," passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and faith. Born October 13, 1935, in Humboldt, Tennessee, George was the fifth of six children of Samuel Herbert Henley and Hallie Elizabeth Henley.

George graduated from Humboldt High School in 1954, where he excelled in baseball, basketball, and football, earning recognition as "Best All-Around Athlete" during his junior and senior years. Shortly after graduation, he married his high school sweetheart, Sula Onita Henley, and they shared a loving marriage until her passing in 2002.

George's professional journey was marked by hard work and ambition. He began his career at the Humboldt Cotton Mill before mastering the printing trade at Southern Graphic Arts in Nashville, Tennessee. He then worked at several newspapers setting type, eventually transitioning to insurance sales at National Life Insurance. Later, he established his own successful advertising business, "The Shopper." In 1972, George and Onita opened the first and largest antique mall in the South, located in the historic Fairview High School building, sharing their passion for antiques and history with the community. He was always a true helper, generously supporting those around him and encouraging others to follow their dreams.

A lifelong member of Avondale Baptist Church, George drew strength from his faith. He often found comfort in favorite hymns like "Go Rest High on That Mountain," "Because He Lives," and "It Is Well with My Soul."

In recent years, George found happiness and companionship with his girlfriend, Linda Williams. Their seven-year relationship was filled with laughter, adventures to estate sales, antique shops, flea markets, and peaceful afternoons spent together at Lake Graham, one of their favorite spots. As George's health declined, Linda lovingly cared for him, creating cherished memories through their time together.

George was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sula Onita Henley, and his eldest son, George Thomas "Buster" Henley. He is survived by his children, Charles David Henley, Donna Maria Bankston, and Dayna Marie Britt; grandchildren Jacob Ramsaur, Heston Henley, Joshua Britt, Maranda Britt Hathcote, Jesse Moore, Zach Henley, and Zoe Henley; nine great-grandchildren with whom he shared many joyful moments; and seven great-great-grandchildren he was blessed to meet.

He was also preceded in death by siblings Herbert Henley, Roy Celbert Henley, Joyce Henley, and Floyd Cornelius "Skeezer" Henley. He is survived by his brother, Carlton "Bojack" Henley.

George Henley will forever be remembered for his integrity, kindness, entrepreneurial spirit, genuine helpfulness, and profound love for family and faith. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather, and he treasured every moment spent with family. His legacy lives on in the many generations he touched with love, humor, and wisdom.

Rest in peace, Doodler. Your race is run, and you have finished strong.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/george-henley/obituary/

Copy