Mr. Henderson E. Formey, Jr. was a native of Baxley, GA and attended school in the Appling County District. In 1949 he obtained a Social Science degree from Clark College in Atlanta, Georgia. Immediately after graduating from college he began his career in education in Coffee County, Georgia. He taught children by day and U.S. Veterans by night.
On September 7, 1950 he married Eloise Copeland and the two were blessed with seven wonderful children. Shortly after being married, Mr. Formey was inducted into the Armed Forces where he served in Korea and attained the rank of sergeant. He received The Commendation Ribbon with Medal Pendant for Meritorious Service. Mr. Formey returned to teaching where he worked in various counties. He spent four years as principal in Camden County then moved to Savannah Chatham to assume the principalship for John W. Hubert Junior High. He continued his education by receiving a master’s degree and six-year certificate in Education Administration from Atlanta University and the University of Georgia.
Mr. Formey spent his last 18 years of educational service as an administrator. He was known as a distinguished principal in Savannah while he served at Hubert Junior High. He worked as a Director of Secondary Education, Assistant Superintendent, Executive Associate Superintendent, and became the first African American to hold the office of Superintendent of Schools serving twice in an interim capacity. He retired in June 1984 then dedicated himself to full-time ministry.
He was a loving leader who passionately served the eastside community in various ways. His loving servant leadership style often carried him personally into the neighborhood of the eastside community to reclaim a truant student or to drop off food to a family. He ensured his students were exposed to the possibilities of going to college.
Those who interacted with him knew he valued faith, family, and strongly encouraged his students and members of the community to obtain a solid educational foundation. At The Early Learning Center, we honor and commit ourselves to the life and legacy of Mr. Henderson E. Formey, Jr.
