William Ralph Henry went to be with the Lord on June 1, 2024, after suffering a stroke earlier this year. His wife, Billie J. Henry, son, and daughter in-law were at his side. Visitation and funeral will be at Christ United Methodist Church on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, from 10:00am to 11:00am with service at 11:00am. A graveside service will be held in Bruce, MS.

Ralph was born July 1, 1930, in Bruce, MS to Della and Luke Henry, the third of three siblings. His father was a school superintendent at Bruce High school where Ralph graduated in 1948. Ralph and Billie were named Mr. and Mrs. Bruce High School. He was a proud graduate of Mississippi State University Class of 1954.

His career began with the International Harvester Company, the first job in a career entirely committed to the sales of heavy machinery. After many years selling for various Caterpillar dealerships in Mississippi, he became an owner of Mississippi Equipment Rental and Supply, a company that would eventually become United Rentals. Shortly after that, he became an owner in Hughes-Henry Equipment Company, a John Deere Construction equipment dealership. This would eventually be sold and become Stribling Equipment Company. Ralph then began Mid South Machinery which continues today 37 years after its founding.

Without a doubt, Ralph was an old school entrepreneur with a highly contagious enthusiasm for whatever project or potential sale in which he was involved. He was a father-figure to many of those who worked with him. He made instant friends, making them feel special and important. Ralph was passionate about his business, but that passion was surpassed by his love for his alma-mater Mississippi State University.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his son Jon Barry Henry. He is survived by his wife of almost 70 years Billie J. Henry, his son William Mark Henry (Meredith), grandchildren Morgan Rossi (Anthony), Eleanor Ann Henry, Emma Grace Henry, and Jon Mark Henry, great grandchildren Laila Rossi, Lennox Rossi, and Lux Rossi.

Ralph loved the Lord and his Savior Christ Jesus and is now experiencing perfect joy in Their presence. He was a member of Christ United Church and the New Yorkers Sunday School Class where he loved to sit under the teaching of his friend and teacher York Craig.

Honorary pall bearers; Jim Henry, Jerry Henry, Bill Henderson, Larry Easterling, David Mockbee, Charlie Furlow, Carl Ray Furr, and Jim (Tiger) Coggin.