State Patrol Officer Tony Henry Has Died

Many of you don’t know the name Tony Henry, but you’ve likely seen him, or at least seen his picture.  Georgia State Patrol Officer SFC Tony Henry was a member of Governor Nathan Deal’s protective detail.  He was also a motorcycle enthusiast, a great family man, and a friend to many at the Capitol.

The one part of politics that many who participate as grassroots activists often miss is that those that work daily in and around the capitol, regardless of party or position, become family. They share a common bond that is hard to describe, but they see the good and bad of government and our people daily, together.

The people who protect those we elect work incredibly long hours, and have a stress level that is also difficult to articulate or understand.  They must be affable and friendly/casual, all the while searching everyone and everything in their site lines as a potential threat. They are revered members of the Capitol family.

In early December, SFC Henry used some of his rare time off to take a quick motorcycle trip to Tampa. He was critically injured in an accident while there.  He was eventually stabilized and transferred back to Atlanta, though he remained in critical condition. Last night, he succumbed to his injuries.

Governor Nathan Deal posted the following about Henry on his Facebook page:

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” ~Matthew 5:4

Last night, we lost SFC Tony Henry, a member of my executive security detail for the past six years. Our hearts are heavy with loss and we grieve with his wife Trudy and the rest of his family. We rejoice, however, knowing that he is in a better place. Rest in peace, Tony. We’ll forever cherish our memories of and with you. Team Deal will never be the same.

There’s been an outpouring of support from many other members of the Capitol family. Tony wasn’t just a guy they knew. He was clearly a trusted and valued friend.

The Capitol is busy today, with session cranking up to full speed. Still, if you’re at the Capitol this week and you notice that those you’re dealing with are a little distant or otherwise distracted, know and understand that a good man has been lost, and the entire extended family is grieving.