It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the Honorable Dana Senit Henry, a beloved mother, superior court judge, and distinguished public servant, who left us on February 10, 2025.
Dana was a woman of immense compassion, intelligence, and humor, qualities she carried throughout her life, both on and off the bench.
A Los Angeles native, Dana served on the Los Angeles Superior Court from 1983 to 1992. Dana’s legal career began with the California Department of Transportation, where she was instrumental in projects to promote gender and race-neutral policies. After which she worked as a Deputy City Attorney and practiced environmental class action law. As a judge, she became known for her expertise in family law, as well as her work resolving complex and high-profile civil and criminal cases.
Dana’s legacy of service extended beyond the courtroom. She was an advocate for fairness, equality, and justice, and these values were evident in her work as well as personal life. As a proud Democrat, Dana was passionate about gender and racial equality, serving in leadership roles with the California Women Lawyers Association and the National
Association of Women Judges, among many other organizations. Her contributions to society were honored with multiple awards, including the National Humanitarian Award from the American-Israel Fellowship Society.
Outside of her professional accomplishments, Dana had a deep love for the outdoors and sports. She enjoyed competitive horseback riding, water and snow skiing, hiking, tennis, and traveling the world, which brought her a sense of freedom and joy. Dana was a devoted animal lover, particularly fond of her dogs, who were a source of companionship and comfort. Her kindness, sharp wit, and warmth made a lasting impact on everyone she met.
Dana is survived by her daughter, Julia Henry, son Justin Henry, and three beautiful grandchildren, Jayden Steinberg, Ish Henry, and Rogue Henry, whom she cherished, along with a host of friends, colleagues, and loved ones who were touched by her generosity, intellect, and kindness. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Doctors Without Borders, a cause that was dear to Dana’s heart. You can make a one-time donation in her memory here.
A celebration of life will take place on Monday, May 12, 2025 at the Sagebrush Cantina in Calabasas, California.
