Elder Henry C Tappin

Elder Henry C. Tappin, of Seymour, Connecticut, was born on January 26, 1942, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to William Tappin, Sr. and Sadie Johnson Tappin. He departed this life on April 25, 2026, at the age of 84.

Henry received his education attending James Hillhouse High School, where he often spoke proudly of his athletic ability in track and field. One of his fondest memories was winning a race against the late Floyd Little, former NFL halfback for the Denver Broncos.

He later went on to work for Winchester Manufacturing Company as a laborer. After years of dedicated service, he retired from FMR Manufacturing Company, where he worked as a Lead Inspector.

He accepted Christ and dedicated his life to the Lord, faithfully serving as a Deacon and Elder at Pitts Chapel Unified Free Will Baptist Church in New Haven, Connecticut. There, he ministered the Word of God throughout his church community and across various regions of the United States. He had a compassionate heart and a spirit of understanding, using his ministry to help those in need of healing. He actively participated in many fundraisers, banquets, and pastoral anniversaries, always supporting the growth and strength of the church.

Henry was united in marriage to the late Barbara Tappin, and they shared 41 years of marriage. To this union, one child was born, Derrick Tappin. During their marriage, they established a traveling clothing boutique business specializing in hats and fashion designs that catered to the church community. Through this business, it became their mission to continue spreading the Word of God, combining their love for ministry with service to others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Tappin, Sr.and Sadie Tappin; his brother, William Tappin, Jr.; and his sister, Betty Pertillar.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory: his brother, Lee C. Tappin (Bobbie, Angela, Lolanda, Navida); his children, Yvonne Green, Derrick Tappin, Arletta Hines-Hobby (Michael), Timothy Little, and Sheree Ricard (Lance); and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He also leaves to cherish special memories with Margarett (Constance) Tappin Bessette (Dennis); and his godchildren, Martha Bauknight, Kyisha Brockington, Sean Hardy, Tachema, and Randy, who held a special place in his heart.

AcknowledgmentThe family of Elder Henry C. Tappin wishes to express their sincere appreciation for all acts of kindness, prayers, and expressions of sympathy shown during their time of bereavement.

Celebration of Life Services will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at New Trinity Temple C.O.G.I.C. 285 Dixwell AvenueNew Haven, Connecticut 06511. Visitation: 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM Funeral Service: 11:00 AM. Burial to follow at Beverdale Memorial Park 90 Pine Rock Avenue New Haven, Connecticut 06514. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.

Scripture

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."2 Timothy 4:7