WATERBURY — It is with broken hearts that the family of Mr. Benjamin “Benny” Henao Sr., age 93, of Waterbury, say farewell for now to our beloved, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, following his peaceful passing at Waterbury Hospital on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Mrs. Ruby (Flores) Henao for 71 loving years.

Benny was born on October 23, 1932, in Quintana de la Serena, Spain, to the late Gregorio and Matilde (Romero) Henao. After moving to Connecticut and settling in Waterbury, Benny became a cherished member of his community and dedicated his life to his family and his career. A proud veteran, Benjamin proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War, demonstrating the same commitment and passion he carried into his professional life. He spent many years with American Brass Company in Waterbury before devoting over 35 years to American Electro Products as an experienced electroplater. His commitment to his craft was matched only by his love for his family. His family was the centerpiece of his life; nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with them, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Benny was a man of many passions. He found immense joy in fishing and gardening, often sharing these simple pleasures with those he loved. An avid sports fan, he passionately supported the Cleveland Indians and the Cleveland Browns, sharing countless memorable moments with family and friends while cheering on his favorite teams. “Next year will be our year. Mark my words”. Benny was passionate about music, particularly jazz. He was a big fan of jazz musicians such as “Big” Joe Turner, Count Basie, Louis Jordan, and Louis Armstrong. Throughout his life, he and his wife traveled extensively. Their favorite destinations were Texas and Las Vegas. Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, and Aruba were also places he enjoyed visiting.

Left to honor his memory and cherish his legacy, besides his beloved wife, Ruby, are his children; Benjamin Henao Jr and his wife Kathy of Waterbury and Joseph Henao of Naugatuck, his siblings; John “Chico” Henao of Waterbury, Mary Henao of Waterbury, and Marcelino Henao of Kansas, his grandchildren; Benjamin Henao III and his wife Myra of Waterbury and Jesse Henao of Hawaii, as well as his great-grandchildren; Gregory Henao of Waterbury and Bella Lynn Henao of Waterbury. Benny also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends. Besides his parents, Benny was predeceased by his son, Gregory “Greg” Henao.

Funeral services for Mr. Henao will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 12:00 p.m., at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06705. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and visit with the Henao family from 11:00 a.m. until the service begins at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Benny to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.