A Long Island native since the 1940s spent her life giving back to others until she died in January.

Annie Henry, a World War II veteran, is remembered as a pioneer who impacted thousands of people throughout her life. She died on Jan. 30 at the age of 104.

"I want her to be remembered as a lifelong advocate for all children no matter race, creed or color," says Henry's grandmother, Tamika Mendoza.

Henry joined the U.S. Women's Army Corps as a technician after the U.S. War Department allowed Black women to join the military in the early 1940s.

She met her husband, Vincent, while in the service. After being discharged, they moved to Gordon Heights.

Henry served as the fire department's secretary and treasurer for over three decades, led the Faith Baptist Church's after-school program in Coram, mentored local youth, served as a foster grandparent and worked as a food service employee in the Longwood Central School District.

Her daughter Carmen says her mother's upbringing had a strong influence on her life.

"She was brought up by her grandparents," Carmen says. "They instilled Christian values and helping other people."

Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine honored Henry with a proclamation in 2020 to celebrate her 103rd birthday, said in part "The passing of Annie Henry reminds me of the great value of a life well spent. Her love and dedication to family, community, church and country was admired by all who knew her. She will be missed by those touched by her extraordinary personality and dedication to making life better for everyone."

Henry's family says they hope the town will consider building a monument or naming a street in Henry's honor.

Spending much of her life on Long Island, she was born in Alabama. She faced racism during her life, but her family says she did not focus on it and just wanted to give back.

Carmen says other people told her how her mother helped by giving food or a place to stay.

Henry's family is raising money for the funeral through a GoFundMe page.

They will hold a celebration of her life Tuesday at O.B. David Funeral Home in Port Jefferson Station