Martha Ann Henry

Martha Ann Henry, 84, of Metropolis, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026. She was born on December 14, 1941, in Massac County, Illinois, to Walter and Lillie Hilgeman.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, October 16, 2026 at Lutheran Church of the Cross with Rev. Karen Husby and Pastor Nate Hillebrand officiating. Burial will follow in Metropolis Memorial Gardens. A visitation will be held at the church from 11:00 am until the funeral service at 1:00 pm.
On January 1, 1963, Martha married the love of her life, Lowell Henry. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and devotion, sharing more than 63 years of marriage. Their enduring commitment to one another was a testament to the love and faithfulness that defined their life together.
Martha lived a life marked by steadfast Christian faith, a gentle spirit, and a deep love for others. She was a member of Lutheran Church of the Cross, where her faith was not only something she professed, but something she faithfully lived out each day. Her kindness and compassion were evident in the way she treated everyone she encountered, whether a lifelong friend or someone she had just met. Daily Bible reading and devotions were an important part of Martha's life, strengthening the faith that guided her words, actions, and the love she so freely shared with others.
Martha had a servant's heart and found great joy in serving her church and community. She served as a church secretary, a member of the choir, and was a devoted member of the Dorcas Quilters at Lutheran Church of the Cross. Her time spent quilting and fellowshipping with these special ladies was something she deeply treasured and looked forward to each week. These friendships and opportunities to serve held a special place in her heart.
Above all else, Martha cherished her family. Spending time with those she loved was her greatest joy, and she treasured every moment they shared together. She embraced her roles as a mother, Nanny, and Nene with tremendous love and pride, considering her family one of God's greatest blessings in her life. To her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, she was a constant source of comfort, encouragement, and unwavering support. Her love was steady, her presence reassuring, and her devotion to her family never wavered. The memories she helped create and the example she set will remain in their hearts for generations to come.
Martha is survived by her loving husband, Lowell Henry; her daughter, Debbie Hillebrand and husband Mike; her son, Greg Henry and wife Kathy; four grandsons, Wesley Hillebrand (Presley), Zac Henry (Amber), Nate Hillebrand (McKell), and Eli Henry (Natalie); and eight great-grandchildren, Bell, Landon, Leiden, Nolan, Samuel, Ledger, Oliver, and Deacon. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Kennedy, along with many loving nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Lillie Hilgeman; and her sisters, Ruth Schmidt, Melva Krueger, and Ruby Arnesman.
Martha's life was one of purpose, devotion, and faithful service. She understood the beauty of life's simple blessings and found meaning in everyday acts of kindness, love, and faithfulness. She never needed grand gestures to make a lasting difference, because she understood that a life faithfully lived could leave an extraordinary impact.
Her legacy is found not only in the family she loved so dearly, but also in the countless lives she touched through her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she gave, the faith she demonstrated, and the example she lived will continue to bless those who were fortunate enough to know her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given in Martha’s name to Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2601 North Avenue, Metropolis, IL 62960. Condolences for the family may be left at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.
Pallbearers will be Greg Henry, Wesley Hillebrand, Zac Henry, Nate Hillebrand, Eli Henry, and Landon Hillebrand.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home.