Henry Minerva

Henry Minerva, 76 of Plantation, FL died at his home August 18, 2015 after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his Partner of 42 years, Richard P.(Rick) Murphy, his sister Moonyean (Honey) Casci of Plantation, his sister Judi Giambra and her Partner Louise Provost of Lauderhill, FL. His nephew Ryan Casci, of Hoboken NJ. And his nephew and niece-in-law, Shannon and Melinda Giambra of Newton, NJ as well as Rick’s niece, Kathryn Heinecke of Roswell GA. Henry lived all but the last 20 years of his life in Northern NJ., while the balance was in Florida. He graduated with Honors from Fairleigh Dickenson University attending at night while working full-time for the Equitable Life Assurance Co. (now AXA). He also became a prestigious CLU in the insurance industry. Henry started in the mail room with the Equitable right out of high school and while earning his degrees and CLU rose through the ranks to eventually become a Vice-President and retiring at the age of 49. Henry had also taken a hiatus from the Equitable for two years of military service in the US Army from 1961 to 1963 where during that time, because of his genius IQ and typing ability, he was assigned a Top Secret clearance to work at the Pentagon. Henry had a beautiful tenor singing voice and delighted in singing in the Music Ministry of St Bernard’s RC church in Sunrise often performing well-received solos. He had many friends for 40 and 50 years being very loyal, caring, giving and empathetic. Beloved by all who met Henry for his many wonderful qualities, he was also well known for his dry witty quips and great sense of humor. Extremely generous, he often supported those who were less fortunate, with his time, talents and financially. He and Rick loved to travel throughout the US, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe. His life will be Celebrated 11 AM at St. Bernard Catholic Church September 5, 2015. Friends will be received at the Parish Hall following the Mass.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a cancer charity of your choice, the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army.