James E. Henes, Jr.

James E. Henes, Jr., age 82, of Philadelphia, passed away on November 13, 2025, surrounded by his entire family. Born on July 19, 1943, Jim was the devoted husband of over 58 years to his much-loved Bernadette (Lineman), who somehow managed to keep up with his boundless energy and stubborn charm for nearly six decades.
He was the proud father of Tim (Joanne), Brian, and Colleen (Michael), and is now reunited in heaven with his cherished son, Kevin. Jim’s legacy lives on through his six granddaughters—his “6 girls”—Gillian (Ben), Allison, Shannon, Katie, Paige, and Charlotte, who each held a special place in his heart (and often in his lap, even when they were too big for it). He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Bernard (Joanne), and joins in eternal rest with his brothers Robert (Peggy), Francis (Gerri), and Terry (Cyndi), and sister-in-law Eleanor (Joe).
Born to James and Catherine Henes, Jim grew up in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, the eldest of four boys. He embraced the role of oldest son with quiet strength and reliable leadership. From
an early age, he was guided by the values of faith, family, and fierce loyalty—principles he carried with him every day of his life. He graduated from Northeast Catholic High School in 1961, a proud Falcon to the end, and thereafter served in the U.S. Army while stationed in Germany. Jim met Bernadette through a bowling league at St. Boniface Catholic Church—a perfect strike from the
start. They married in 1967 and built a life rooted in faith, love, laughter, and a healthy dose of humorous mayhem. Together, they raised four children with a blend of Irish wit and German discipline, instilling in them the values of hard work, kindness, and always showing up—whether it was for a Little League
game, a school play, a dance recital, or a late-night heart-to-heart. Jim was a man who never sat still – unless to suffer disappointment watching a Philadelphia sports team or to share the latest Days of Our Lives episode with Bernadette. He wore many hats over the years: Scout leader, baseball coach, church sexton, committee chair, and the occasional Santa Claus. If there was a need, Jim was there – often with a plan, fortitude, and a cup of Starbucks coffee. He brought these gifts to his longtime role as an executive member of the Northeast Catholic Alumni Society.
 A proud union man, Jim worked for A-P-A Transport for over 35 years as a truck driver and warehouse operator. He was known for his tireless work ethic, encyclopedic knowledge of back roads, his uncanny ability to organize the trunk of a car, and fix just about anything with duct tape and determination. After retiring early, he embraced his favorite job title: “Pop-Pop.” Whether babysitting, cheering from the
sidelines, offering sage advice, or sneaking extra cookies, Jim was all in. His granddaughters knew they had a champion in their corner—one who never missed a dance recital, a graduation, or a chance to brag about them to anyone who would listen. Pop was – and always will be – their biggest cheerleader, expert counselor, loyal advocate, and moral compass.
Jim’s life was a masterclass in showing up, loving deeply, and laughing often. He leaves behind a family who adored him, stories that will be told for generations, and a legacy of faith, loyalty, and love that will never fade. Pope Francis asked “What is the most important subject to learn in life? To learn to love.” Jim loved big — and we were all the better for it.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Scholarship Fund thru Northeast Catholic Alumni Association. Family and friends are invited to attend his visitation and funeral on Tuesday, November 18th, in Our Lady of Calvary RC Church, 11024 Knights Rd. Phila. 19154. You may visit and comfort James’ family from 12:00 noon – 1:30 pm in the church. There will be a funeral mass starting at 1:30pm. Burial will take place at a later date in Washington Crossing National Cemetery.