Mr. Teddy “Lee” Henley, age 80, passed away Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Mr. Henley was born July 21, 1946, in Swifton, Arkansas, son of the late John T. Henley and Sarah Foust Henley.

Mr. Henley dedicated his life to serving others through his work and his love for his family. He had a passion for education and teaching others. After earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas, he spent a few years teaching before being drafted and serving his country in the Vietnam War, eventually making rank as Army Captain and after he returned home he started pursuing his dream of becoming a lawyer. He went on to graduate from the University of Georgia School of Law, beginning the next chapter of his distinguished career as a criminal defense attorney and practiced in several surrounding counties for many years. Following law school, he established a private law practice, first in Lindale, Georgia and later in Rockmart, Georgia. He practiced criminal defense for over 40 years. In 2004, he helped establish the Rome Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s Office. He went on to serve as the Chief Public Defender in Floyd County for twenty years, a position he held with dedication and a strong commitment to those he served.  Lee had the ability to interact with people on any level which made him highly respected by his colleagues, prosecuting attorneys and defense attorneys alike. 

Outside of his career, Mr. Henley enjoyed traveling to the beach, reading a good book, and spending time with the people he loved most. He was a devoted husband to his wife until her passing and cherished the life they shared together. Above all, he dearly loved his family and treasured every moment spent with them. His kindness, dedication, and love for his family will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Henley is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Melanie Bell Henley; and a dearly loved infant sibling.

Mr. Henley is survived by his children: Jennifer Williams (Tyler), Loren Henley (Angela), Chelsie Warren (Cody) and Chase Wilson; grandchildren: Ryleigh Henley, Emma Warren, Lynlee Lou Warren, Liam Henley, Greyson Henley, Rowan Wilson, and Abby Robertson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorial services to honor his life will be held Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 4:00 PM, in the chapel of the Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home, with Reverend Ken Freshour officiating.

Interment will follow in Polk Memory Gardens.

Mr. Henley’s family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, between the hours of 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude and thank you to the caregivers and Pruitt Hospice and their team for all of the great care, love and support they have shown Mr. Henley and his family over the last few years.  

The Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family of Mr. Teddy “Lee” Henley.