Malvina Henagan

Malvina Jackson Henagan, 90, of Saint Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025. She was born on May 15, 1935, in Galveston, Texas, and later moved to Saint Louis as a teenager.

It was in Saint Louis that she met the love of her life, James Verdo Henagan, Sr. The two were married on June 9, 1954 at Galilee Baptist Church, and together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family. From their union came three children—James Jr., Cynthia, and Steven—whom Malvina devoted herself to raising while also supporting her husband’s various business ventures.

In 1972, Malvina began her career in education after earning her B.A. in Education from Harris Teacher’s College. She served Saint Louis Public Schools with distinction for over 25 years as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, and assistant principal, before retiring in 1998. She balanced her career with her deep commitment to her family and her faith, as a devoted member of North Hills Church of Christ. She continued to worship faithfully, watching services online until her passing.

Malvina lived life with warmth, joy, and purpose. She loved her family deeply and cherished time spent traveling, gardening, celebrating the holidays—especially Christmas—and enjoying outings with her girlfriends. She was known for her hospitality, always ready to host family and friends for holidays and summer gatherings. She delighted in puzzles, word searches, and her daily viewing of The Price is Right and Jeopardy. Her stylish flair, her laughter, and her radiant smile will always be remembered by those who knew her.

She is survived by her children James Jr. (with his partner, Vivian), Cynthia, and Steven; her grandchildren Christopher L., Parthenia (Demond), Melerie, Jatanya, James III (Nikia), LaKecia, Christopher M., Steven, and Jamal; her great-grandchildren Justin, Jada, Jauhad, Jaudaia, Jaden, Airyana, Christopher W., Cayden, Lyric, Lia, Makel, Mekayla, Tyrese, Dylan, Wynter, and Sajia; her great-great-grandchild, Donavan; a cherished sister-in-law, Mae Esther Ross (Henagan), and daughter by love, Beverly. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, her parents, and brothers.

Malvina also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, adopted grandchildren, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.