Obituary of William Henry Cody
In Loving Memory of William Henry Cody (1963 - 2024)
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William Henry Cody, a devoted father, loving grandfather, cherished brother, and loyal friend. William passed away peacefully on Friday, September 27, 2024, at RWJ University Hospital at Rahway, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 61 years old.
William was born on January 10, 1963, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Henry Cody and Magnolia Cody. He was raised in Plainfield, NJ, and spent his formative years growing up in a home filled with love, laughter, and the values of hard work and perseverance instilled by his parents. His family was at the heart of everything he did, and he carried those values with him throughout his life.
William attended Plainfield High School, graduating in 1981. He was known for his quick wit, infectious smile, and the care he took in forging lifelong friendships during his high school years. After graduation, William pursued higher education at Delaware State University, where he developed a deep passion for people and service. He later embarked on a long and rewarding career that showcased his unmatched work ethic, resourcefulness, and his unwavering commitment to providing for his family.
Throughout his career, William held various positions that allowed him to connect with people and showcase his dedication. He worked in customer service for Humanscale in Edison, NJ, where he spent five years building strong relationships with clients and co-workers alike. William also thrived as a sales representative for Cintas in Piscataway, NJ, where his determination and outgoing nature earned him respect in the industry. Afterward, he transitioned to a position as a dispatcher for Easton Coach Company in Union, NJ, a role that perfectly suited his calm demeanor and problem-solving skills. His colleagues from each role remember him for his diligence, leadership, and the personal connections he forged with everyone he worked with.
However, it was William’s role as a father and grandfather that brought him the greatest joy in life. He was the proud father of his son, William Henry Jenkins, with whom he shared a close and loving relationship. William was overjoyed to welcome his granddaughter, Madison Ianna Jenkins, into the world. Madison became the center of his world, and he treasured every moment spent with her, whether it was reading stories, playing games, or simply watching her grow. His face would light up with pride and joy whenever he spoke of her.
William was a man of simple pleasures, and those who knew him best will remember his love for Dallas Cowboys football, his excitement for a good game of blackjack, and his collection of sneakers, which was as diverse as his personality. A true sneakerhead, William enjoyed finding unique and rare sneakers, each pair telling its own story. His hobbies reflected the joy and zest he had for life, and he found ways to share his passions with those around him.
A kind and generous spirit, William was always the one to offer a helping hand to a friend in need. He was known for his ability to listen without judgment and provide guidance with a gentle heart. William had a quiet strength that made others feel safe and supported in his presence. He valued the importance of family above all else and made sure that those he loved knew it every single day.
William was predeceased by his loving father Henry Cody.
William is survived by his son, William Henry Jenkins and his daughter-in-law, Sindey Jenkins; his beloved granddaughter, Madison Ianna Jenkins; his mother, Magnolia Cody; his sister, Bunnie Cody; his brother Steven Cody; two aunts, Carolyn Fegins and Arlene Thorne, one nephew Steven Cody, Jr., and a host of cousins and friends who were touched by his kindness and generosity.
A visitation to celebrate William’s life will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Higgins Home for Funerals, where family and friends will gather to remember the joy William brought into their lives. A private cremation will follow, in accordance with William’s wishes.
William will forever be remembered for his warmth, his unwavering love for his family, and his dedication to living a life filled with purpose, kindness, and laughter. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Rest in peace, William. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.