David L. McHenry

If you ever woke up to a message from David L. McHenry, at 11 PM saying he was “thinking about a visit,” there was a good chance he’d be on your doorstep 800 miles away by breakfast. He was a man who took spontaneity seriously—often driving hours for a short visit and a quick nap at one of his kids’ houses before heading back out.  

David, 71, of Benton, passed away on March 7, 2025, at the Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. Born November 16, 1953, at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, he was the son of the late Gerald LeRoy McHenry and Barbara (Keller) McHenry.  

David attended Benton High School and went on to work at Wise Potato Chips in Berwick as a lab technician in quality control. He dedicated nearly 37 years to the job before his accident forced him to retire. 

He was a member of Benton Christian Church. He loved the beauty of Gods creation and his deep faith led him through some of life’s most difficult challenges. He was patient in his afflictions and lifted others around him.

He had a passion for cooking, playing chess and backgammon, was an avid reader and was often seen rolling around town in his motorized wheelchair, camera in hand, perfecting his photography skills. Music moved him—sometimes to the point of tears—and his singing voice was something special.  

Above all else, David, lovingly know as Poppy, adored his grandchildren and made it his mission to be part of their lives. He was always their biggest cheerleader, encouraging their hobbies, sharing in their interests, and making every moment special. He loved living with them, often waiting at the bus stop just to be the first to hear about their day. He taught them how to make "Dave’s Special Pizza," took long walks with them, and made sure they knew they were deeply loved.  

Faced with challenges following a serious car accident, David managed to find the silver lining in every moment. His daughter Amy, who was his caregiver at the time, became an expert rescuer as David often found adventure not always ideal for his very heavy wheelchair. 

David had a quick smile, a great sense of humor, and a laugh that could fill a room. He had a way of making every moment memorable and was the kind of friend everyone wished they had. Most importantly, he was an incredible father and grandfather, and we were lucky to have him.  

He is survived by his daughters, Amy Albert of Benton and Brandy L. Czock (Christopher) of Peachtree City, Georgia; his six beloved grandchildren, Alexys, Aaron, Amelia, Adele, Brennan, and Callie; his brother, Stephen M. McHenry of Berwick; and his beloved partner of two years, Devona Albertson.  

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 12 Noon at McMichael Funeral Home, Inc., 4394 Red Rock Road, Benton, with Pastor Ken Lewis officiating. A visitation will be held from 11 AM until the time of service.  A lunch at the Benton Christian Church will follow at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you take a spontaneous road trip, sit in the sun, enjoy a good meal, or tell a joke in his honor—bonus points if you show up unannounced on a loved one’s doorstep.

The McMichael Funeral Home, Inc., of Benton, is honored to serve the McHenry Family.  For online condolences, or for additional information, please visit our website:  www.mcmichaelfuneralhome.com

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