Henrietta M. (Gaynor) Cressman

Henrietta M. Cressman (nee Gaynor) passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of her cherished family. She was born in Philadelphia to the late Edward and Henrietta (nee Wilson) Gaynor. 

Henrietta was a longtime resident of Kensington, where she raised her children, except for periods when the family lived elsewhere due to her husband’s military service. A hard worker from a young age, she first helped raise her brothers and sisters and later worked tirelessly to provide a good life for her own children. She was always giving of herself to others.

In her later years, her children lovingly referred to her as their “firecracker.” She was sassy, funny, and known for her colorful language—often cracking herself up along the way. Henrietta enjoyed socializing at the 5 and 1 Club at Fishtown Rec and at the Lutheran Settlement, where she especially loved having lunch and chatting with friends. She also loved to try her luck on the lottery and scratch off tickets. 

At home, she enjoyed reading—particularly Harlequin romance novels—watching her favorite shows such as MASH* and The Andy Griffith Show, and doing seek-and-find and crossword puzzles.

More than anything, Henrietta treasured time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved their visits and wanted to know everything happening in their lives. She was also a grandmother figure to the neighborhood children, welcoming them to play safely in her yard. Whenever the kids came by, there were always plenty of chocolate chip cookies to share.

Henrietta was the beloved wife of the late Harry B. Cressman. Devoted mother of Marie Johnson (John), Bobby Cressman (Lisa), Brenda Young (James), Dawn Weiseman (late Joseph), and the late Harry Cressman (Sharon). Loving Grandmom of Sharon Johnson (Eric Abshire), Karen Harr (Billy), Lauren Kaznica (Eric), Megan Cressman, Shelby Cressman, David Cressman, Noah Cressman, Robert Cressman (Liz), Jason Cressman (Megan), Nicholas Cressman (Nicole), Lorraine Young, Victoria Young, Stephen Weiseman, and Dana Weiseman. Proud great grandmother of Jocelynn, Alexa, Avery, Gracie, Liam, Jaxon, Benjamin, Lily, Bella, Oliver, Luke, Avery, Miyah, Natallie, Aviannah, Maverick, Kasyn, and the late Aria. Dear sister of Richard Gaynor, Francis Gaynor, and Edward Gaynor (Diane). Also preceded in death by numerous brothers and sisters. 

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing and funeral Sunday February 1, 2026 beginning at 11am in the Hubert M. McBride Funeral Home 2357 East Cumberland Street Philadelphia, PA 19125, followed by her funeral service at 1:15pm. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions to the Dementia Society of America P.O.Box 600 Doylestown, PA 18901 or http://www.dementiasociety.org a foundation which assists those battling this most difficult disease and their caregivers.

*Please note, we know that the recent snowstorm will affect those traveling to the funeral and parking. Please be careful, take your time, and allow additional time when preparing. Also, we have attendants to help when you approach the funeral home. 

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