Mary Eva Henney
1920 — 2014
Mary Eva Henney, 93, passed away on April 23, 2014 at Bergan Mercy Hospital.
She was born on July 10, 1920 to Stanley and Zoe (Mellor) Huffman in Wayne, NE. The family made their home in Elgin, NE where she graduated from Elgin High School. She attended the University of Nebraska for one year before moving to Washington, D.C. to work on Senator Hugh Butler’s staff.
On January 31, 1942, she married William H. Henney. After his discharge from the Army in 1945, they moved to Omaha where they raised 6 children.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 59 years, William H. Henney; 2 brothers and 2 sisters-in-law; granddaughter, Emily Schumacher; son-in-law Galyn Schumacher; and former son-in-law Paul Graham.
Mary is survived by her children, Mary (Paul) Gurney, Kathy (Marty Riemenschneider) Graham, James (Lorraine) Henney, Alice Schumacher, John (Mary Pat Manhart) Henney, and Janet (Michael) Schawang; 18 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Mary was a gracious hostess who loved to host gatherings for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and her many friends. Her greatest joy was having a houseful of company. It was not unusual to see a fleet of vehicles at “Mana’s” house for a get-together. The love and interest she had for others was returned to her tenfold in the many friendships she had with those who touched her life. She enjoyed conversation, laughter, and a good glass of wine. Mary was the anchor of the family; she taught tolerance and patience by example throughout her life, and will be greatly missed.
Funeral services will be Thursday, May 1, at 10:30 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, with Interment in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation with the family begins Wednesday, April 30, after 5 p.m. at the 72nd Street Chapel, with a wake service at 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Radio Talking Book Service Network; Siena Francis House; Omaha Public Library; or the charity of the donor’s choice.
John A. Gentleman Mortuaries is in charge of funeral services.
