Alma Lee McHenry

In his infinite wisdom, God deem it necessary to call from our midst our beloved Alma Lee Mchenry. So, we bow in humble submission to his will and pause to reflect upon the life of Alma Lee James McHenry, born May 16, 1938, to Nellie and Claude James.

Alma attended and graduated from Horace Mann High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1956. She also graduated from barber school in Little Rock. As an entrepreneur, Alma was a Barber and an agent for the Sims and Shaw Burial Association. As a barber and cosmetologist, she was well respected in the community; her barber clientele consisted of those who would only allow her to cut their hair. She also had a reputation with the marcel irons.

 Alma committed her life to Christ at an early age when she was baptized by Rev. L. Lawson at New Salem Baptist Church. She later united with the Douglas Chapel Church family, where she has remained a member for 45-plus years. As a faithful and dedicated servant at Douglas Chapel M.B.C., she served as President of the Missionary Society, Sunday School Teacher for Sister Sarah's Class, Member of the senior choir and the finance committee until her health began to deteriorate and would not allow her to any longer serve.

 Alma was also involved nationally and locally in numerous organizations. She was the assistant chapter rep of the GMWA El Dorado Chapter from 1990 until the present.

She also served on the beautician association's state level, receiving numerous awards and certifications for her many accomplishments.   She was also recognized as the local, state, and national leader of the Scottish Rite Eastern Star, where she served faithfully for many years and did extensive travel to expound on the organization and ensure its mission was implemented and carried out professionally. 

 On Thursday, January 19, 2023, Alma transitioned to her heavenly home, where she eternally united with her parents, Nellie and Claude James, and grandparents, Lucinda and Allen Nunley. 

 As a songbird gifted with a golden voice, she was one of the members of the nationally known J&W Trio; She was also a member of the El Dorado Concert Choir, where they recorded an album and where she was the lead songstress and original member of the Spiritual Ensemble. Alma was also a member and soloist of the South End Singers; and other concert choirs and singing groups.

 She leaves to cherish her memories, a host of extended family, friends, associates, and a loving church family who will miss her dearly. Although Alma did not have biological children of her own, she sowed into the lives of many.