Dolores Henahan

Dolores Ann Henahan, age 68, of Royal Oak, passed away on September 13, 2026. She was born on January 1, 1958 in Pontiac to Thomas and Patricia Kerr. Dolores was a woman of deep compassion, a generous spirit, and a lifelong commitment to caring for others. A graduate of Seaholm High School and Mercy College, where she earned her nursing degree, Dolores dedicated much of her professional life to helping people. She began her nursing career working in intensive care and emergency rooms, where she made a lasting difference in the lives of countless patients and families. Later in her career, Dolores brought her nursing expertise to Blue Cross Blue Shield, where she worked as a nurse auditor. She remained with the organization until her retirement in 2020. Dolores had an extraordinary love for animals, especially dogs. She was deeply involved with Make a Difference Dog Rescue and was a passionate advocate for senior dogs, believing that older animals deserved just as much love and a chance at a happy home as any other. Over the years, she personally rescued at least eight senior dogs, giving them the care, comfort, and love they needed. Irish culture and community were another important part of Dolores's life. She was a very active member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Rose Kennedy Division, and a devoted supporter of the United Irish Societies. She also served as chairwoman of the Detroit International Feis, an Irish dance competition, where she shared her enthusiasm for Irish culture and community with others. Dolores also had a wonderful creative side. She loved crafts and spent many happy hours knitting, crocheting, and cross-stitching. Her creativity, generosity, and thoughtfulness were reflected in the many things she made and shared with her family and friends. Above all, Dolores was known for her caring heart, her devotion to the causes and communities she loved, her love of animals, and the joy she found in sharing in the traditions and spirit of the Irish community. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, friendship, and love that will continue to live on in all who knew her. Dolores will be remembered as the beloved wife of Michael. Loving mother of Sean (Karla Pinskey) Henahan, Megan (Eric) Burke, and Ryan Henahan. Proud grandmother of Ryleigh and Lottie. Dear sister of Debbie Kerr, Thomas (Nancy) Kerr, Krissy (Gary) Mace, and the late Andrew Kerr. She is also survived by her five nephews and two nieces. Visitation for Dolores will be held on Wednesday, September 16, from 2 - 8 p.m. (Scripture Service at 6:00 p.m.) at Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors, 705 W. Eleven Mile Rd. (four blocks east of Woodward), Royal Oak. The Funeral Mass for Dolores will be celebrated on Thursday, September 17 at 10:30 a.m. (visitation 9:30 a.m.) at National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica, 2100 Twelve Mile Rd., Royal Oak. The family kindly requests no flowers. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Dolores' memory to Make a Difference Dog Rescue (www.makeadifferencerescue.com).

Dolores Henahan

January 1, 1958 - September 13, 2026