Lorraine Henry

The sunset in the last chapter of the book for Lorraine Henry on, Saturday, January 23, 2021, where she peacefully departed this earthly life at her niece’s home in Salisbury, Maryland.

Lorraine was born on January 31, 1921, to the late Hanson Wigfall and the late Medoria (Wilson) Wigfall in Dames Quarter, Maryland. She was one of five girls and seven boys of her parents’ union.

Lorraine was a member of Macedonia United Methodist Church, under the leadership of Reverend De’Angelo Johnson, where she served on several committees. Her favorite hymnals were “Precious Lord” and “His Eye is on the Sparrow”. 

Lorraine received her early education in the former, Salisbury Colored School and later attended the Beauty Academy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she became a        licensed cosmetologist and teacher.

Later, she became the owner and operator of Lorraine ‘s Beauty Shop and School for over 60 years in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Lorraine ‘s parents purchased a waterfront property which later became “Henry’s Beach” in 1952. Eventually, she and her husband late husband, George Henry, became owners of the first black owned business in Somerset County, Maryland. Their beach business thrived under the couple’s leadership and the community enjoyed live entertainment, swimming, various waters sports, and baseball games and a variety of events the beach community offered.

George and Lorraine Henry were united in holy matrimony in 1940. The couple enjoyed their life together, however, they did not have any children from their union. They were devoted to each other and built a loving and successful marriage.

Lorraine was a savvy, strong-willed businesswoman who was honored in 2011 with an honorary dinner hosted by Somerset County Historical Board. She received several plaques and a Historical Property Site Sign was placed on her property in Dames      Quarter, Maryland.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories, two sisters: Ida (William) Thomas of Princess Anne, MD, Shirley Finney of Salisbury, MD; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended relatives and friends; several special friends: Alice Pollard of Orangeburg, SC, Linda Jones of Baltimore, MD, and Nancy of Nancy’s Bed and Breakfast in Dames Quarter, MD.

In addition to her parents: Hanson Wigfall and Medoria (Wilson) Wigfall; husband: George Henry; seven brothers and two sisters, preceded her in death.

We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.  (2 Corinthians 5:8)

Lovingly Submitted By The Family

Note: Jolley Memorial Chapel, P.A. will comply with the COVID-19 rules regarding masks and safe social distancing. Therefore, anyone attending the viewing and/or funeral services must wear a mask.

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