of Little Rock, AR

January 7, 1937 - December 19, 2024

John Charles Henard, 87, of Little Rock, Arkansas passed away on December 19, 2024, after a long illness. John was born on January 7, 1937 in Rockford, Illinois to Wilma (Barlow) Henard and Charles Foster Henard. He graduated from Rockford West high School in 1954 and received a bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University in 1959. He earned his master's degree from Northern Illinois University shortly thereafter. He married Francine Rose Minardi on August 19, 1960. They resided primarily in Rockford until relocating to Dallas, Texas in 1983, and then moving to Little Rock, Arkansas in 2022.

During his career as a teacher, John taught History and English for over 45 years in the Kinnikinnick, Hononegah and Dallas Independent School Districts. He made a substantial impact and difference for many students over the decades of his career. He kept in touch with many of his former students who appreciated his dedication, his belief in the educational process, his teaching style, and his guidance.

John was a lifelong learner. He enjoyed reading, studying history and genealogy, playing tennis in his younger years, listening to music, and watching football, documentaries, and movies, particularly action and westerns. He was always enthusiastic about family holidays and events, and seldom missed an opportunity to attend a school function for one of his children or grandchildren. To sum it up, John showed up for the people he loved, and his love was always evident. John was a friendly and outgoing man. He loved meeting new people and hearing their stories. His family will miss his wit and humor.

John was preceded in death by his mother and father.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Francine Henard, son Kevin Henard, daughter Kristin (A.J.) Zolten, and his three beloved grandchildren, Ro Zolten, Natalie Zolten McNulty, and Becca Zolten.

Services will be held in Rockford, Illinois in the Spring of 2025.

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