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A viewing, held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, will be immediately followed by a Memorial Service for veteran police officer Jeff ‘Coco’ Henry, whose untimely death affected two police departments he served and their communities.

The viewing and Memorial Service will be held at Damiano’s Funeral Home, located at 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch.

Henry, 44, spent 25 years as a member of the Deal Police Department. Although he retired in October 2014, he decided to accept a position as a Class II officer with the Allenhurst Police Department.

“It is with deep regret that the Allenhurst Police Department announces the untimely death of Officer Jeff Henry #517, age 44,” Allenhurst police officials wrote in a Facebook post.

Henry’s son Tyler and his brother Jason are members of the Allenhurst Police Department, serving as communications officers.

“The loss of Officer Henry is a tragedy to his family, the members of the Allenhurst Police Department, The Borough of Deal Police Department, and the entire law enforcement community,” Allenhurst Police said. “His personality, sense of humor, and ability to brighten everyone’s day will be deeply missed.”

Henry is survived by his wife Erin, and two sons Tyler and Zachary.

“Jeff was very active in the community and was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need,” Deal Police officials said.

Henry began his career as a Deal dispatcher before becoming a patrolman.

“Jeff proved himself to be an asset to the department and was subsequently assigned to the Detective Bureau,” Deal Police officials said. “He served in that capacity for many years, working together with officers throughout Monmouth County.”

Henry also served as President of Deal PBA Local 101 and was very active in the State PBA.

“His dedication to his job and family were exemplary,” Deal police said. “His sense of humor was infectious and we could always count on him to lighten the mood. Henry forged many close friendships with officers in both departments and he will be sorely missed. Our hearts are very heavy.”

Henry’s family has requested donations be made in Henry’s name to the Monmouth County SPCA, in lieu of flowers.

“Rest in Peace Coco, we’ll take it from here,” Deal Police said.

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