Henry D. McNair, son of Henry McNair Jr. and Brenda McNair was born on July 18, 1971, in Newark, New Jersey. Henry, affectionately known as “Mac”, “Smoke” and “Boosilla” was a caring, loving, devoted father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, godfather, and friend. He attended Irvington public schools while playing football and basketball. Henry later graduated Irvington High School in 1989. As a young boy, he enjoyed hanging out with friends, especially on Chapman Street.

Henry graduated from Richard Stockton College in Pomona, New Jersey with a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences in 1995. During his time at Stockton, he became a member of the Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity Inc. in 1993. He was an active member and represented Omega Psi Phi until his last breath. Henry was exceptionally smart and loved to learn, so he continued his education by pursuing his masters. In 2000, he graduated with a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, New Jersey. He finished his education journey at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey as a Doctor of Education Candidate in 2013. Additionally, he was affiliated with many organizations such as the NAACP, NJEA (New Jersey Education Association), Urban League, Golconda Temple 24, and Mason Blue House Tyre 29.

Henry decided to become an educator because of his love for education. In 1997, he started his career as a teacher at Dr. William H. Horton Elementary School. He saw much success in the educational field through his hard work and dedication. After 5 years, he transitioned from elementary school to high school where he served as a Department Chair at University High School. In 2008, he was offered an opportunity to become a Vice Principal at Shabazz High School. He later returned to University High School to become the principal from 2010 until 2013. Henry thoroughly enjoyed his time at University High School where he created great connections and relationships with students, staff, and families. He finished his education career as the Principal of Daylight/Twilight High School, Newark Prep then College Achieve in Paterson, New Jersey until he retired in 2021. After retirement, Henry discovered new ways to serve and impact his community.

Henry enjoyed spending time with his wife and children, cracking jokes and watching his favorite sports teams play. He was a huge fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, University of Miami Football and Los Angeles Lakers. Henry would light up any room he walked into with his big personality. Whenever he was around his loved ones, his heart was filled with happiness.

Henry was preceded by his beloved sisters, Cynthia Mcgahee and Dominique McNair. He leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Henry (Brenda) McNair Jr.; his beloved wife, Wendy McNair (Toussaint); children, Jaron McNair, Brianna McNair, Jaxson McNair-Johnson; siblings, Kirkland McNair, Tamika McNair, Tamara McNair, Jordan McNair; nieces and nephews, Shaniece, Camron, Caron, Caleb, Henry A., Evan. Also cherishing Henry’s memory are a host of aunts, uncles, cousins’, other relatives, and friends. Henry will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.