JPaul McHenry

JPaul McHenry, a proud citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, passed away on May 30, 2026, in Oklahoma City, OK, at the age of 38.

Born in Claremore, OK, on September 14, 1987, JPaul grew up in Mannford, where he attended school and developed lifelong friendships. He was the kind of person people never forgot. His smile was contagious, his laugh unmistakable, and his wit could leave an entire room in stitches. He truly never met a stranger.

JPaul worked in the funeral profession as a funeral director’s assistant, helping families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Those who worked alongside him often spoke highly of his compassion, respect, and dedication to the people he served. He loved music deeply and often used songs to express what words alone could not. He enjoyed singing, writing poetry, studying religion, and exploring questions of faith. Throughout his life, he remained a deeply spiritual person who sought meaning, connection, and God in many different ways. JPaul adored animals, and they seemed to adore him in return. The same was true of children, who were naturally drawn to his gentle spirit and playful nature. He was fiercely protective of those he loved and never hesitated to stand up for someone being mistreated, whether he knew them or not. He rooted for the underdog, defended the vulnerable, and was known to give away his last few dollars or the shirt off his back to someone he believed needed it more. He possessed a rare generosity of spirit. Friends often felt they were his best friend because, when you were with JPaul, he made you feel seen, valued, and important. His loyalty ran deep, and his capacity for love was extraordinary.

JPaul is survived by his beloved daughter, Kenzie of Tulsa, OK; his sister, Baby Blueagle Bridges-Fox, and brother-in-law, Joshua Fox, of Nashville, TN; his brothers, Shawn Williams and his wife, Linda Williams, of Norman, OK, and Teddy Jack Bridges of Ojai, CA; his niece, Halen Leigh Harris of Maui, HI, and her son, Ari Seiwell; his nephew, Christian Fox of Nashville, TN; adored aunts, respected uncles, numerous treasured cousins, and countless best friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, humor, and unwavering loyalty.

He is also survived by the love of his life, Johnna Roach, his devoted partner and, as he proudly called her, “wife.” She stood beside him through every season of life and remained a constant source of love, support, and acceptance. Their bond was profound, enduring, and one of the greatest blessings of JPaul’s life.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Carla McHenry; his father, Gerald Gaines; his maternal grandmother, Gladys McHenry (“Mom”); his maternal grandfather, Lewis McHenry; his paternal grandmother, Mary Johnston (“Pama”); and his grandfather, Jim Johnston (“Papa”), who helped raise him and remained one of the most important people in his life.

JPaul faced lifelong struggles with schizophrenia, addiction, grief, and profound loss. Yet those who knew him best understood that beneath those battles was a man of remarkable intelligence, humor, compassion, and faith. His illness often obscured the light within him, but it never extinguished it.

His family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to Native Wings founder Melvin Battiest and Catholic Charities employee Juan Dills, who saw JPaul’s worth and treated him with kindness, compassion, and dignity. Both men extended a helping hand during difficult chapters of his life. Juan’s efforts to secure housing for JPaul during his final months brought comfort and peace to those who loved him. Knowing that he spent his last days sheltered, cared for, and treated with humanity brings immense comfort to his family and friends.

On a personal note, thank you to our cousin, Cindy Stone (“Sis”). Living in Tennessee while JPaul remained in Oklahoma often meant there were things I simply could not do from so far away. Time and again, Cindy stepped in without hesitation. She was there for JPaul, she was there for our mother during her illness, and she has always been there for me whenever I needed her. No words could ever fully express our gratitude for the love, loyalty, and support Cindy has shown throughout the years.

In keeping with JPaul’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no funeral, viewing, graveside service, or memorial service will be held. His ashes will be buried with his grandparents, as requested, and a portion will also be scattered with his mother’s ashes.

Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to perform an act of kindness for someone in need, donate to organizations serving people experiencing homelessness, addiction, and mental illness; organizations helping individuals reenter society after incarceration; or donate to Ward-Wiseman Animal Haven, a no-kill animal shelter.

His family has chosen these organizations because they showed up for JPaul when he needed help. We encourage you to consider supporting them in his memory.

Catholic Charities of Oklahoma City

https://catholiccharitiesok.org/donate

Native Wings Like an Eagle

https://www.nativewings.org/donations

Ward-Wiseman Animal Haven

https://www.wardwiseman.com/donation

Above all, remember his enormous heart, his unforgettable smile, and the love he gave so freely. Those who knew JPaul know that despite every hardship he faced, kindness remained his truest nature. 

Arrangements were entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home in Sperry, OK. Online condolences to the family can be made at johnsonsperry.com