Mabel Gray Henry

Mabel Gray King Henry, 92, of Wilson, died at her home surrounded by her three daughters on Friday, October 30, 2026.

She was born on March 30, 1934, in Nashville, North Carolina, to Beverla Pearce King and Gray Richmond King. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and went on to teach high school algebra in Kinston.

Mabel Gray met George J. Henry Jr., the love of her life, and they shared 50 years together. Their life took them to Charlotte and Goldsboro before bringing them to Wilson, where Mabel Gray created a home filled with family, friendship, and the things her family loved.

Mabel Gray was active in her church and always willing to help anyone in need. She loved gardening, cooking, UNC basketball, walking, games, and morning breakfasts with friends. She was an avid duplicate bridge player achieving Life Master ranking. She also loved going to the beach, watching the snow fall, and strolling with her granddog, Chico. Most of all, she treasured holidays and any time the whole family could be together, especially when she could cook a big meal for everyone.

Being “NaNa” was one of Mabel Gray’s greatest joys. She was active, devoted, and endlessly proud of her grandsons, Patrick and Will. She loved them dearly and was always sure to tell everyone about them.

Mabel Gray is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Gray Henry of Durham; Laura Henry Horn and her husband, Mike, of Raleigh; and Ann Henry Hoffner of Wilson; and her grandsons, Patrick Gray Horn and William Henry Horn. She is also survived by her beloved granddog, “Chico”.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George; her parents, Beverla and Gray King; and her brother, Bill King.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregivers, Shannon Lytton and Teresa Tant, and to Hospice of Wilson—especially her RN, Kristin Joyner—for their kindness and exceptional care.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, at First United Methodist Church in Wilson, followed by a reception in Asbury Hall. A private burial will be held for the family.

Memorials contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, PO Box 1423, Wilson, NC 27894.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr N, Wilson, (252) 237-7171; www.wilsonmemorialservice.com