Dr. Marty Diane Henley, DNAP, CRNA, whose life was defined by compassion, dedication, and resilience, passed away on September 14, 2024, after a courageous journey with cancer. She leaves behind a legacy of service, strength, and boundless love that inspired not only her family but also countless individuals whose lives she touched.
Born on May 28, 1955, in East Liverpool, Ohio, to the late Robert “Bob” and Marty Johnson, Marty grew up with a passion for helping others. After graduating from East Liverpool High School in 1973, she pursued a career in nursing, earning her RN from the Ohio Valley Hospital School of Nursing. In 1976, she began her medical career at WVU Hospitals, and by 1980, she had graduated from the School of Nurse Anesthesia at Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC). In 1998, she assumed the role of Chief CRNA and held that position until her retirement in 2020. She earned her Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia Practice Management from Marshall University in 2001.
Marty’s professional life was marked by more than 40 years of service at CAMC. She was known as a tenacious advocate for patient care and her fellow colleagues, constantly seeking improvements for CRNAs, students, MDs, and patients alike. Her contributions were many, from implementing electronic anesthesia records to leading the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Council at CAMC. Marty’s passion for excellence in anesthesia practices was legendary, and she mentored and inspired a generation of students and peers. Her tireless work ethic and pursuit of fairness left a lasting impact on the hospital community.
In 2002, Marty received the Lifetime Recognition Award of Excellence in Professional Nursing at CAMC. In 2001, she received the WV Nurse Excellence Award for Advanced Practice. She served as a member on the West Virginia Association of Nurse Anesthetists Board of Directors from 2009-2013 and served twice as its secretary. She also served on the Cancer Advisory Board of CAMC and the CAMC Executive Committee, as well as several other leadership positions.
Marty’s heart for service extended beyond her profession. She participated in 14 medical trips to Haiti, where her work reflected her deeply held belief in the importance of giving back. She said these trips to Haiti allowed her to live with the attitude of gratitude. A colleague remarked that even in Haiti, “everyone knew Marty” and wanted to be around her.
Marty and her husband, John Rudolph “Rudy” Henley, were married on June 9, 1984, celebrating 40 years of marriage this year. She cherished her family above all else, and nothing meant more to her than her children: her son Grant (Melissa) of Aspen, Colorado, and her daughters Julia (Charlie) of Charleston and Sarah. She was excitingly awaiting the arrival of her first grandchild in October. Marty is also survived by her brothers, David Johnson (Dawn) of Amherst, Ohio, and Brandon Johnson (Melanie) of Lewisburg, West Virginia, as well as many devoted nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her family and friends remember her as a loving mother, a compassionate friend, and a fierce advocate for those she cared about.
In 2020, Marty received a diagnosis of Stage IV inoperable lung cancer, but true to her character, she faced it with unmatched strength and resilience. She continued to travel (Hawaii, Mexico, Turkey, Greece and Italy), exercise regularly, and constantly helped others in impactful ways, including those also diagnosed with cancer. Marty became a champion for patients through the LUNGevity Foundation, empowering others to become their own advocates in their fight against cancer. Her medical knowledge, combined with her personal research, allowed her to make an impact on patients nationwide. Even in the face of cancer, her generosity and grace remained steadfast. Her battle with cancer became a testament to her indomitable spirit.
Marty’s impact transcended the medical world — she was a mother, a friend, a compassionate caregiver, a survivor, and an advocate for those in need. She lived life with boundless energy, always putting others first. As an avid skier and outdoor enthusiast, she found joy in the world around her and shared that joy with everyone in her life.
Marty’s life was defined by her desire to make a difference, and she did so with humility and love. She carried a light that made the world a brighter place.
Marty was a member of Christ Church United Methodist and she lived life with a servant heart.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a gift to a scholarship fund to be established in her name at the CAMC Foundation, 3414 Staunton Ave. SE, Charleston, WV 25304. A private family service was held on Tuesday, September 17. A celebration of Marty’s remarkable life will be scheduled after the arrival of her grandson in the coming days.
Online Condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Arrangements are in the care of Snodgrass Funeral Home.
This obituary was originally published on Legacy.com.