David Todd McHenry passed away without warning on August 21, 2024, at the age of 54. His loss was completely unexpected, and his loved ones are profoundly saddened.

David was born March 4, 1970, in Kansas City, Missouri, to David Bruce McHenry and Louise Mixon. He was their only child.

David was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, Will Morris; grandmothers, Gertha Mixon and Dorothy L. McHenry; grandfathers, Mitchell McHenry and Charles Mixon; aunt, Lovie Jean McHenry; and cousins, Kiva McHenry and Mitchell "Little Fuzzy" McHenry Powell.

David received his early education in Kansas City Public Schools. He attended Lincoln College Prep Middle School and excelled as a drummer in Lincoln's Marching Band. His love for the performing arts was carried over to St. Stephen's Drill Team where he led the drum corps as major with many years of acclaim. His high school years were spent at East High School where he shined as a cadet in the Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) and attained the rank of Cadet Lieutenant Colonel. This experience sparked his life of service in the armed forces and eventually law enforcement. In 1987, the summer before his senior year of high school, David completed his Army Basic Combat Training. He returned home that fall, a triumphant young man, ready to take on the world. David graduated from East High School with honors while simultaneously serving in the Army Reserves.  David's military service ultimately led him to the Missouri National Guard, culminating in 27 years of service to his country.

At the age of 16, David was served a dose of injustice at the hands of local policemen. A case of profiling, that left him with scrapes, bruises, and tattered clothes. That singular incident triggered a drive in him that would last a lifetime. Instead of lodging complaints that would fall on deaf ears, he decided to join the system, to be a part of the change his community needed. He was determined to become a police officer and lead by example. He achieved his goal of working 36 years with honor and pride in law enforcement. His career spanned from Corrections Officer with Jackson County, Jailer with KCPD, Airport Police Officer for the City of Kansas City, Police Officer for Independence Police Department, and Police Officer with the UMKC Police Department.

David married his high school sweetheart, Sherry Hunley, in 1991. Together, they were lovers of life and new experiences. They traveled the world together, exploring 5 continents.  Although the marriage ended, their friendship lasted until the end.

But David didn't give up on love. He found it again when he met Kim. Their mutual love of music and line dancing brought them together. David always loved children, but never had any of his own. So, it was no wonder how easy it was for him to fall in love with Kim's grandchildren. She and her family will hold the memories of the good times, smiles, and laughter they shared with David in their hearts forever.

David's memory will be carried on by his partner, Kimberly Kaplan; stepdaughter, Mychael Rose Ward; uncles, Mitchell C. McHenry & Carl McHenry; aunts, Brenda Allen & Paula Roane; stepsisters, Hazel Chamber, Tina Gipson, Kaitlin Gipson; stepbrother, Roosevelt Gipson III; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.