Ernest Edward Henley, lovingly known as Ed to the community and cherished as “Doc Doc” by family and close friends, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by those he loved, on Nov. 30, 2024. A man of unwavering faith, love, and dedication, Ed lived a life full of purpose, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire all who knew him. Born on April 5, 1935, in his family’s home in Palmer, Tennessee, Ed was the youngest child of Ernest Edwin Henley and Mary Louise Henley. At the age of five, he moved with his family to Manchester, Tennessee, where he spent his formative years. Ed attended Coffee County High School and later graduated in 1958 from Tennessee Technological University with a bachelor’s degree in business and social studies. During his three-year career on the Golden Eagle team. Ed won two Ohio Valley Conference titles and held an OVC Individual record in the low hurdles from 1956-1963. The record remains unbroken at Tennessee Tech. Ed brought his experience back to his hometown where he taught and coached football, basketball, and track at Westwood Junior High from 1959-1963.

On December 31, 1964, he married the love of his life, Vivian Brothers Henley. Together, they built a life full of love and devotion, raising three children: Edward Brett Henley (Martha), Stacey Henley Cravens, and Leslie Henley Trussler. A man of faith and family, Ed deeply loved his Lord, his children, grandchildren, and extended family. He cherished attending basketball games and cheering for his beloved Tennessee Volunteers. His joy for life and ability to make those around him feel valued were examples of his character. He was baptized in faith and became a member of the Manchester First Methodist church on Jan. 1, 1945. As a businessman, Ed was known for his keen sense and entrepreneurial spirit. He was the founder of Henley Propane, located on the square in Manchester, Tennessee, and co-owner of Henley Mini Storage with his son. He was also one of the original founders and owners of Coffee County Bank in 1975, where he served as Board Chair until his passing.

Ed was a celebrated basketball official, serving the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) for 56 years, officiating numerous district, regional, and sub-state games. His dedication to the sport earned him induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2007. In 2015, he was honored with the Tennessee Tech Outstanding Athletic Alumni Award. A devoted family man, Ed adored his five grandchildren-Ashley Sager (Garrett), Andrew Henley (Heather), Connor Cravens, Jett Trussler, and Tripp Trussler-and took immense pride in his great-grandson, Landon Collin Sager. He is also survived by his nephew, Butch Niederhauser, and niece, Reece Campbell. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Edwin Henley and Mary Louise Henley; his beloved wife, Vivian Henley; sister, Mary Niederhauser, and his nephew, Mike Niederhauser. Accolades and Achievements

Ed proudly served his country in the United States Army, dedicating nine years to active duty and reserve service. He was an active member of the Manchester and Coffee County community, serving on various boards, including:

• Manchester City School Board (9 years)

• Manchester City Alderman (1983-84)

• Coffee County Election Commission

• Manchester JC’s and Rotary Club, where he received the Outstanding Service Award

• Coffee County Athletic Foundation (Co-chairman), establishing an athlete’s weight room at Coffee County Central High School

• Manchester City Health Education and Housing Board

• Manchester Coffee County Landfill Board (Chairman)

• Tennessee LP Gas Association, serving two terms on the Board of Directors

• Chief Fundraiser for Manchester Rotary Club, creating a cardiac care unit in Coffee County Hospital

He was an original member of the Sportsman and Businessman Organization and proudly served as President of the Coffee County High School Alumni Association in 1983. In 2019, he was honored with the Wayne Bramblett Award for his exceptional service to the community. Ed sponsored numerous young officials over the past 28 years with scholarships to officiating camps along with continuous support to the Manchester Recreation Department. Ed was also a proud Mason, 32nd Degree, devoted member of the Rotary Club, and an Eagle Scout.

A celebration of Ed’s life took place on Dec. 4, 2024 at Manchester First United Methodist Church. The funeral services will be held at Manchester First United Methodist Church on Dec. 5. Family and friends gathered to honor his extraordinary life, share cherished memories, and reflect on his many contributions to family, community, and beyond. The graveside service with Military Honors at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens followed the funeral on Thursday, Dec. 5. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Coffee County Central High School Athletic Program. Donations can be mailed to Coffee County Central High School c/o Bookkeeper Amy Barnard, 100 Red Raider Drive, Manchester, Tennessee 37355 or by visiting the school main office during regular business hours. The family would like to extend their greatest appreciation and thanks to those that took great care of Ed during this time. Dr. Jay Trussler, who was not only his doctor but like a son to him, went above and beyond to ensure he along with his family was taken care of at a moment’s notice. The hospice nurses at Compasses were angels during this time and brought such comfort. Special thanks to the caregivers that sat with him and drove him around, allowing him to continue to do the businesses he loved; Arick and Lisa Carter, Debbie Medford, Carrie Chapman, Maddison Cook, Tracy West and Devina Lawson. The love that was shown to Ed and the family will never be forgotten. Ed loved Manchester and the Coffee County Community, and it was apparent that he was loved back.

Ernest Edward Henley’s legacy is one of faith, family, and service. He will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community leader who brought joy to those around him. His memory will be cherished as a beacon of kindness, wisdom, and inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing him.