Pastor Henry Ward Oxendine, 72, of Pembroke, departed this life and entered his heavenly home on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 2:47 AM, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 17, 1953, to the late Grover Cleveland Oxendine and Flowers Deese Oxendine, Pastor Henry was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 37 years, Susan Lowry Oxendine, and his sister, Brenda Faye Oxendine.

Pastor Henry earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Master's degree in Educational Administration. He dedicated 25 years of his career as an Intensive Probation/Parole Officer. For 37 years, Pastor Henry served as the pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church, where he made a significant impact on his congregation and community. He was also deeply involved in mentoring young men as a baseball coach. His passions included History, Lumbee culture, and family genealogy.

He is survived by his three children: Stacy Williamson and husband Kelly of Morehead City, NC; Brittany Jozefowicz and husband Mike of Ocean Isle Beach, NC; and Joseph Brad Oxendine of Wake County, NC. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Logan Locklear, Brooklyn Jozefowicz, Madison Jozefowicz, Conner Oxendine, Degan Oxendine, Zaivah Oxendine, Henry "Lil Henry" Oxendine, and Wrenlee Oxendine; one brother, Bobby R. Oxendine; one sister, Sylvia Graham; and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.