Henry J. Wofford, Jr.

Henry James Wofford, Jr., 74, of Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, passed away at Peterson Park Health Center on Friday, January 19, 2024. Henry was born in Chicago on July 23, 1949, to Henry J. Wofford, Sr., and McComa Louise Wofford. He attended Herzl Elementary and Julius Hess for Junior High School. He went to Farragut High School and received a degree in Education and Art at Southern Illinois University. He was an artist who loved to paint portraits. After a short stint in education at Providence St. Mel, he later found his passion and career in the clothing industry with upscale men’s clothing at Sirreal, Bigsby & Kruthers, Nieman Marcus, and finally retired from Saks 5thAvenue. Henry received awards as a top professional, paying particular attention to details at each clothing store. He had an élite clientele at the clothing stores, including NBA players, state governors, and pastors.

Henry and Shirley attended Farragut High School and knew of each other but never dated. They were reunited in 1986, and the two were married on November 12, 1987. Henry and Shirley enjoyed traveling to New York City, taking cruises, and visiting the Caribbean islands. They would often attend Broadway plays, musicals, and art shows. Throughout Henry’s life, he was passionate about the arts, history, and jazz music. He dedicated time to reading and studying the arts and musicians. He had a green thumb and loved caring for his house plants and garden.

Henry was baptized at an early age at Langley Avenue Church of God. He continued serving God at Trinity United Church of Christ and finally moved his membership to Apostolic Faith Church. He was a spiritual man who often watched on TV when he couldn’t attend in person.

Henry is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Shirley; his two stepdaughters, Janorisè (Michael) Robinson and Kanika Evans; grandchildren, Isaiah, Emmanuel, and Caleb; his brother, Gerald (Sharon) Wofford; nephews and nieces, Kim (Don) Ferguson, Antwan Nelson, Gerald (Shavaunn) Wofford, Jr., and Shannon Wofford. Henry is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and McComa Louise Wofford, Sr., and his sister, Janet Nelson.

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