Norfolk-On Tuesday; December 31, 2024, our beloved mother, Vanilla B. Henry, passed away on Tuesday; December 31, 2024 at Sentara Leigh Hospital.

She was born April 18, 1938 in Enfield, NC to the late Govan & Betti M. Lynch of Norfolk, VA. Besides her parents, she was also predeceased by her husband, the late R.V. Henry of Norfolk, VA; a daughter, Donna Lynn Henry of Norfolk; and a sister, Alease Hodges of Chesapeake. She is the last surviving one in her family.

Vanilla was educated in Enfield, NC and later moved to Norfolk, VA. She worked for the The School Board for Norfolk Public Schools. Vanilla was an avid reader, bingo player, spades player and her favorite saying was, "Don't start no mess, It won't be no mess."

She leaves to cherish beautiful memories, her children: Ronald V. Henry of Norfolk, Michele Winfield (Terrence) of Norfolk, Donald E. Henry of Norfolk, Elaine Y. Milton of Va. Beach and Vanilla D. Henry of Pittsburg, PA; a host of grandkids, great grandkids, and great great grandkids; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held 10:00 am Saturday; January 11, 2025 at Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services; 1146 Rodgers Street; Chesapeake, VA 23324. Viewing will be 4-6pm Friday at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Norview Heights and Sentara Leigh Hospital.