of Little Rock, AR
September 24, 1926 - June 5, 2023
Martha Audrey Hale Henry passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 96. It was her wish to live as long as the Queen. She was born in England, Arkansas, September 24, 1926, to Austin and Neggie Hale.
Graduating as valedictorian from High School at the age of 16 and with three dollars from her father, Audrey caught a ride to Little Rock. She lived at Aunt Kate's Boarding House, rising early to make breakfast and do chores for her room and board. Her room was a cot in the pantry. She attended Draughon's School of Business and later drove to State Teachers College (UCA) at night, then finishing at UALR. She later went back to UCA and received a Master's Degree in Psychology and Counseling. She had her real estate broker's license and sold real estate while pursuing her securities license to sell annuities for VALIC, being the first representative of that company in Arkansas. She was the only female District Manager in the country for a long time.
Audrey was fearless and fiercely independent. When she was very young, she took flying lessons in an open-cockpit plane until her father found out and made her quit. One of her classic sayings was ''I can't stand things and people who don't work.''
Gracious and a true Steel Magnolia with a good sense of humor, a great conversationalist, she loved people and could talk about almost any subject. Many of her friends were much younger, as she loved their energy and zest for life.
Preceded in death by her daughter, Karen Henry and granddaughter, Elizabeth Masching. She is survived by her sister, Bonnie Cargile; son, Scott Henry (Kay) and daughter, Becka Masching. She was known as "Grandear" to her grandchildren, David Henry, Justin Henry, Nick Henry, Mary Masching and John Masching.
There will be a memorial service Monday, June 12, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Covenant Presbyterian Church. May her memory be eternal.
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16 Condolence(s)
Sarah Miller
Sunday, July 2, 2023
What a blessing it was to know her! A true steel magnolia, indeed. Brilliant, kind, loving, tough, resilient, generous, hilarious…the list of her amazing personality traits goes on and on. Our whole family loves her and we smile thinking about her and Betty (Gra Gra!) reuniting as great friends in Heaven. We love Audrey and the entire Masching family!
Kathryn Bunny Zachary
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
Becka and all of Audrey’s family,
I feel blessed to have shared time with Audrey all these years whenever we could and to have many fond memories. The memorial was a lovely tribute to her and to your wonderful family.
I cannot think of Audrey without hearing her sweet southern drawl saying “Bunny Darlin, how in the world are you? “ She genuinely cared about people and always wanted to help and to just love.
Audrey and my Mom were much alike in not only how strong and independent they were but in how they cherished their children and families. I imagine they will find each other again and talk business and also all about their kids and grandchildren.
She will remain in my heart forever and ever.
Scott Davis
Monday, June 12, 2023
Ms. Henry was an angel to me. I so enjoyed our times sitting on her carport and visiting. She was a kind, intelligent and heart warming lady to know. She was my friend and I will miss her so much. Love and prayers to the family.
Lissa Monroe
Monday, June 12, 2023
I had the privilege of having Audrey as a second mom while attending the U of A. Becca & I we’re sorority sisters and I’d stay with her when we came to LR games. Becca & her mom hosted a wedding shower for me and to show the adventure in her spirit, we told people we wanted a camping shower!!She was fierce , but the kindest lady who spoke with such grace. I loved how she called my name and always had such wisdom to share w/o it ever being offensive. She would meet me gif lunch and she asked the best questions so she could interject her thoughts. She was a delight to everyone. I only wish I spent more time with her after my children grew up. She will never be forgotten and always has a special place in my heart. It’s the Lord who has such precious grace when these things happen. I was visiting my own mom & dad’s graveside this morning in VA, after my neiceâ€s wedding, that I found out my mom away from home in AR went to heaven. My parents are greeting her with open arms and laughing with joy at the memories. I loved her so much and will definitely miss her. â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸Lissa Bounds Monroe
Janice L. Stanford
Sunday, June 11, 2023
I had the pleasure of getting to know Audrey a number of years ago. She was truly a remarkable woman. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Doris Reed
Sunday, June 11, 2023
I just receives the news of Audrey's "graduation" and I so enjoyed reading her obituary. I met her when I was a young mom who decided to get involved in the Republican Party to try to make the world a better place for my children. Audrey was always super positive, encouraging and spunky!! I enjoyed being around her immensely. I will certainly look forward to seeing her again in eternity!! Love and hugs to the family. Doris Reed
Betty Anderson Haisten
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Becka, I am so sorry for your loss. She and Karen welcomed me into your home several times when I came to LR and needed a spot for the night. Your mother always made me feel at home, and like she was happy to host any Pi Phis that were visiting. May her memory be a blessing to you and your family.
Bonnie MORPHIS Magness
Saturday, June 10, 2023
THE MEMORIES OF WHEN YOU GUYS LIVED AT WRIGHT,AR WAS SPECIAL TIMES.
Elaine Dawson
Saturday, June 10, 2023
I remember Mrs. Henry visiting my home in view of my attending Draughon School of Business. I thought she was such a lady and a joy to be around.
Laura Gowen Humphries
Saturday, June 10, 2023
I had the privilege to know Audrey for several years when I worked with her at Valic. she was an amazing woman, always full of energy and worked very hard. She was one of the most successful life insurance, variable annuity sales persons in our region. She was very headstrong but anyone that knew her knew she was right about most things. She loved her family very much. I am sure she is in heaven right now helping God get everything done.
Bob & Mary Cargile
Saturday, June 10, 2023
What a privilege it was to know Audrey! She was an exceptional person. Praying for all her family
Charlene Hardcastle
Saturday, June 10, 2023
A most beautiful photo of Audrey, completely conveying her spirit, beauty kindness and determination. Always a friend to the underdog and standing up for what was right. In her last days at Andover we had tea on Sundays, a delightful time to reminisce about beloved family that had passed over and me to remind her of her days as a Grand dame of the Republican Party. Laughter and tears. What a blessing she has been in my life and so many others. In my heart forever.
Ken and Jan Masching
Friday, June 9, 2023
We were sorry to hear that Audrey’s health had been slipping lately. We celebrate with your family in a life lived vibrantly and with zest and love. May the Lord God give all of you peace, strength, and boundless good memories to share with each other. Write down the memories and stories. Audrey was never without a quick quip to deliver.
Gary and Peggy Masching
Friday, June 9, 2023
We send our prayers and our love, as you remember Audrey and celebrate her life. May Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith in Him, comfort and sustain you all with His peace. Our “hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness…On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.â€
Sharon Jones
Friday, June 9, 2023
Audrey was such a dear friend and I admired her for so many reasons. She was always quick to speak well of others and seems to have known everyone in town at one time! Visited her several weeks ago and although she was not strong physically, she was as sharp as ever and her spirit bright. I will always treasure the fond memories of Audrey.
Renata Byler
Thursday, June 8, 2023
I love reading an obituary, that when I'm through I feel I know the person. This is one of those. These eloquent words about a very strong lady warmed my heart and brought a smile to my face. A life well lived.
Renata Jenkins Byler