James Verald "Jimmy" Henley, 56, passed away on March 22, 2020 in Broken Arrow, OK. He was born in Hobbs, New Mexico on September 2, 1963 to James Franklin Henley and Elsie Marie (Hawkins) Henley. Jimmy was an Oklahoma-based banjo virtuoso, world-class entertainer and former child superstar of the country variety TV series Hee Haw.

Jimmy's love for the banjo began at an early age. Competing against entrants of all ages, he finished first in the National Bluegrass Banjo Championship when he was 10.

Henley captured the attention of entertainer and multi-instrumentalist Roy Clark. A news release said a meeting at the New Mexico State Fair in Albuquerque quickly became a contract that launched an incredible 26-year musical career for Jimmy, beginning with "Hee Haw" and continuing with an invitation to tour with the Clark organization.

During that time, Jimmy performed on every major stage and television show of the era in America and around the world. In recent years, Jimmy returned to the stage as a solo artist, using his talent to create a unique blend of bluegrass and pop, country and classical, and everything in between. He also performed and produced four songs given to him by Grammy Award-winning songwriter Carl Jackson, who collaborated with Henley on background vocals.

Jimmy performed with several major artists during his career, including Marty Stuart, Bill Monroe, Vince Gill, Lester Flatt, Glen Campbell and many others. Henley has four record albums to his credit, plus a number of original compositions.

Jimmy was taken from us too early but is now with his Lord and Savior and his dad. Jimmy will be missed by his family, friends and fans.

A graveside service will be held 3pm, Tuesday, March 31, 2020 in Carter Cemetery, Carter, OK.

Moore's Southlawn Funeral Home 918-663-2233