Raymond McHenry Jr., accomplished musician

Raymond McHenry Jr., beloved husband of Deborah L. Ellis-McHenry, died Monday, July 2, 2012, in his home in Lebanon, Pa. after a long illness.

Born in Ocean City, N.J., March 5, 1932, Ray was the son of the late Raymond McHenry Sr. and Aletha Townsend McHenry.  He was also preceded in death by his sister, Jane Shirley McHenry Chambers.

Mr. McHenry received his bachelor of arts degree in music education at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. in 1950.  After serving in the U.S. Army in Germany he was honorably discharged and earned his masters of arts and sciences in music from the Philadelphia Music Conservatory in 1958. His studied his specializations of composition, arranging and conducting, under the tutorage of Vincent Persichetti.

Ray enjoyed playing his trombone on recordings and especially “gigging” evenings and weekends with his trombone.  He enjoyed teaching and sharing his love of music with his students.  He played for most well known musical acts and bands during his career and he enjoyed playing at home and in church after his retirement.  After he became ill he still enjoyed arranging and composition and listening to his favorite CDs.

Ray is survived by his wife of 25 years and their beloved companion Vanna.  He is also survived by his friends, former students, and fellow musicians.

He loved all things musical from classical and sacred to jazz and Dixieland as a player, arranger, composer and as a consumer.  He also enjoyed reading, designing, gardening and being anywhere with Deb and Vanna.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday July 21, at the Kreamer Funeral Home, 618 East Main Street, Annville, Pa.. Friends may call between 10 and 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Humane Society of Lebanon County, 150 N. Ramona Road, Myerstown, Pa.