Shartez McHenry

Shartez L. McHenry, devoted fiancé, sister, daughter, Police Officer and public servant, passed away on April 6, 2021 at the age of 34. Shartez was born in Owensboro, Kentucky on November 13, 1986. She was the daughter of Ricky Johnson and Sharon Lynn McHenry. Shartez graduated from Owensboro High School in Owensboro in 2004. She earned a degree from Daymar College before attending the Police Academy at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, KY. She met her fiancé, Stephanie Creilson, January of 2015. Together, Shartez and Stephanie went through the process of getting into the Academy, and it was Stephanie’s support in teaching Shartez how to shoot that helped her pass qualifications for the Academy. She was the 463rd class to graduate on March 14, 2015, and from there, began her career with the Owensboro Police Department, proudly being issued Badge 342.

Shartez was never afraid to confront danger. For the next seven years she protected her family and community while working as an Owensboro Police Officer. She not only patrolled the streets, but willingly gave of her time and commitment to organizations, such as Girls Incorporated, the YMCA, Owensboro Parks, and Wendell Foster, to name a few. Shartez worked to positively influence many young girls in her life. She wasn’t only a police officer, no. When she wasn’t devoting her time to us, those who safely walk the streets because of her, she was a traveler, griller, animal lover and outdoors enthusiast. Affectionately known as “Titi” by her nephew, she enjoyed being in her yard, on her property, simply enjoying her space. Her and Stephanie spent many days planting flowers there. Her favorite flower was a tulip and her favorite trees, catalpa trees and willows; many will be planted in her honor and memory. She enjoyed the beach and frequented trips to St. Petersburg, Florida. It was there she witnessed the ocean for the first time. Simply put, it was love at first sight. An animal lover, Shartez’s “baby” was her dog, Abby. Grilling was a specialty of hers, and steaks and chicken wings frequented the menu. Of course, she enjoyed the company of her family right there in it all. She touched many hearts and saved many lives. Shartez was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Preceding Shartez in death are her grandparents, William and Shirley McHenry; an uncle, William McHenry, Jr. AKA June Bug; and Bobby Mason in 2018, who she loved as a father.

Aside from her parents, Shartez is survived by her fiancé, Stephanie Creilson; sister, Brittany McHenry; her nephew, Brentley; a cousin, who was more like a sister, Keyocko Joiner; and numerous friends and law enforcement brothers and sisters.

A Funeral Celebration for Officer Shartez McHenry will be held Thursday, April 15, 2021, 11:00 am in the Chapel of Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory, 519 Locust Street, Owensboro, KY 42301. While the general public is welcome to attend, attendance at the event is limited due to COVID-19 restrictions. Therefore, anyone interested in viewing the service is encouraged to watch the livestream at the official Haley McGinnis Facebook page. Please note the celebration will begin on the page promptly at 11:00 am on April 15th. Burial will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 14, 2021 from 2:00 to 7:00 pm in the Chapel of Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory, 519 Locust Street, Owensboro, KY 42301, and 9:00 am until the time of the service Thursday at Haley McGinnis. Attendees will be required to wear masks and adhere to social distancing requirements while inside the funeral home. As a matter of security, please refrain from bringing bags inside the home. Mobile phones or any other small recording devices (to include audio) will not be permitted to be used inside the home.

Memorial Donations may be made in Shartez’s honor to help support her family by contributing to her memorial fund. Envelopes for Officer Shartez McHenry will be made available to all in attendance at the funeral home.

Please share your memories of Shartez and condolences with her family by signing the Tribute Wall. Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Officer Shartez L. McHenry.