John 'Bill' William Henning
John “Bill” William Henning, 84, of Fairfield Township, formerly of Hillsboro, passed away Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024 at the Bethesda Butler Hospital, surrounded by his family.
He was born June 29, 1940 in East Canton, the son of the late Jay William Henning and Doris (Ross) Henning.
Bill was a member of the St. Mary Catholic Church and a member of the Ohio Pioneers. Bill led a life guided by commitment, integrity and unwavering dedication to his loved ones, nation and career. In 1959, at the young age of 19, Bill joined the United States Navy as a proud member of the Seabees Construction Battalion, serving overseas in Naples, Italy and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He served honorably for four years, a period of his life that shaped his character and contributed to the principled, reliable man he was remembered as.
Upon concluding his military service, Bill found love and married Judy Blankenship Nov. 14, 1964. He was not just a beloved spouse, but a loving and devoted father, whose ever-present calm, quiet and steady demeanor provided a strong foundation for his family. This same dedication and “Can Do” attitude carried over into his professional life.
Bill's remarkable career with the Ohio Telephone Company spanned over 35 years, during which he never missed a day of work. This speaks volumes of his diligence, dependability and work ethic, qualities that were deeply appreciated by his colleagues and superiors alike. His retirement did not signify an end to his dedication to the community. He spent his golden years spreading joy through the simplest yet most heartfelt acts. Bill delivered cookies, touching lives and bringing genuine happiness to all of his customers. He had a love of eclectic music, relished the challenge of hard crossword puzzles and was an avid reader. Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication and service. He will be deeply missed by all who had the fortune of knowing him.
Bill is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judy Henning; children, Jay (Mary Beth) Henning, Jon Henning and Julie (Christian) Henning; six grandchildren, Stephanie, Jason, Christina, Noah, Avery and Henry; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two siblings, David and Elizabeth.
Visitation will be held Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024 from 11 a.m. until noon at the St. Mary Catholic Church, 212 S. High Street, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated following visitation Thursday, Dec. 5 at noon at the church. Father Mike Paraniuk will be the celebrant. Burial, with military honors presented by the Highland County Honor Guard, will follow in the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 or to the Navy Seabee Foundation, P.O. Box 657, Gulfport, Miss. 39502.
The Turner & Son Funeral Home is serving the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.turnerfuneralhomes.cc.