Henry Mallard, 85
June 4, 1941 – June 21, 2026
SHANNON – Henry Clifton Mallard, Sr. has climbed Jacob’s letter right into the Gates of Heaven. Henry met his Creator on Sunday, June 21, 2026 at the NMMC in Tupelo, after a period of declining health. He was 85 years old. Born in Shannon to the late John Henry Mallard and Georgia Thompson, he grew up in Shannon and lived in Verona much of his life. He spent his working life in the truck driving industry. A splendid guitarist, Henry played in several gospel groups over his years including the Dixie Tones, Sounds of Joy and the Spiritual QC’s. He found joy in making music of all genres, especially blues and gospel. He kept himself healthy up until the end by walking constantly. He was a great storyteller and loved reminiscing about the “old times” and telling the family genealogy. He had a large family and enjoyed seeing them anytime. Henry was a member of the Church of God in Christ.
A time of visitation only will take place from 4 PM-5 PM on Saturday, June 27, 2026 in the Chapel of Holland Funeral Directors-Tupelo. The repast will be at the Church of Christ in Verona, Mississippi after the visitation. Condolences may be posted on Henry’s memorial page at hollandfuneraldirectors.com.
Henry is survived by his children, Clint B. Shumpert (Frances)of Tupelo, Henry Clifton Mallard, Jr. of Shannon, Paul Cribbs of Starkville, Henry Kay Cowley of Tupelo, Georgia Jones (Leon) of Madison, AL, Darlene Mallard of Decatur, AL and Hattie Syrumaine Bradley of Tupelo; his brothers, Johnny B. Mallard (Patricia) of Saltillo, Frederick Dabbs (Janice) of Tupelo and Michael Thompson of Palmetto; his sisters, Dorothy Beard of Kokomo, IN, Bryant Robinson of Tupelo and Shirley Ann Mallard of Kosciusko; 12 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. He was preceded in death by his children, Derrick Clifton Shumpert, Barbara Mallard; his sister, Youlanda Thompson; his brothers Linzie Mallard, Semmi Dabbs and Sammy Johnson.
Henry, the guitarist, is now in the heavenly choir and the music must be glorious! Rest in Peace!
As Henry famously said, “This is Howlin’ Wolf signing off…..10-4!!”
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
~
