Henry Edward Mangrum transitioned from this life in the early morning of July 2, 2022 at the Portsmouth, VA Health and Rehab Nursing Home. Born Oct. 31, 1936, Henry was the youngest brother of 6 boys and 1 girl from William and Laura Mangrum, Newport News, VA.

Henry was baptized at an early age while attending public school in Newport News. Upon graduating from Huntington High School; he enrolled at Morgan State College in Baltimore, MD. A few years later, he transferred to Norfolk State College (now University) where he received his College Degree. He was employed with the Newport News Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Company (now Huntington Ingalls.) He became the proud father of a baby girl who was the delight of his life. He taught school on the peninsula for a number of years. With a special Car, he operated his own business, as Mangrum's Driver Training licensed and certified by DMV as Behind The Wheel Driver Education Instructor. In the 1980's, Henry joined Gethsemane Baptist Church under the tutelage of Pastor Dwight Riddick.

In his retirement years, he was employed at Gethsemane Baptist Church on the janitorial staff and later moved to the Learning and Child Care Staff as a full time bus diver, playgrounds keeper and other related duties required by VA State Child Care License. Henry loved his job at Gethsemane and he loved his Pastor and church. I know this as a fact. I have known Henry on three levels, as a Relative, Friend, and a Child Care Supervisor.

He took great pride in his work and would do anything asked of him. Once I told Henry that I needed him to get a hair cut, shave, necktie and hard shoes. He came in on Monday full of smiles like a kid he said "I kinda like the way I look!" He said he felt more professional on the job. He was well respected by the kids, parents and coworkers. His best friend at that time was former Trustee William Bill Banks, also a bus driver for the Child Care Center. The two were affectionately known as 'Frick and Frack.'

Among those who knew Henry well, would probably say this was the most satisfying and enjoyable time of his  retirement years. Henry's last place of employment was Girl's INC until his health began to fail.

Henry was also a Care Giver. He took care of his elderly parents and was always checking on them during lunch and break times. There were a few others who received his Care Giving while on his earthly journey. To God be The Glory!

Henry was predeceased in death by his parents; his brothers, Nathaniel, John and Thomas; his sister, Gloria Jean; aunts, uncles and other family.

Henry leaves to cherish his memories his daughter, Vivian Dudley; son-in-law, Darcy of Allen Texas; 3 Grandchildren and 3 Great grand children; his sister, Beatrice Artis of Baltimore, MD; brothers, Morse Mangrum of Hampton; Lee Mangrum (Joan) of Spotsylvania County; s isters-in-law, Virginia Mangrum of Hampton and Joan Mangrum of Spotsylvania; a host of nieces, nephews, c ousins, other relatives, neighbors, and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 15, 2022 at O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home.  Masks are required. Please keep the Mangrum family in your thoughts and prayers.  O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.