Dr. James Elmer "Pete" Hendry's Obituary
Dr. James Elmer Hendry, lovingly known as “Pete,” entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 2, 2026, at the age of 86.
Pete was born on January 4, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Elmer and Velma Hendry. He was raised in Roseland, Louisiana, where he developed a strong work ethic, humility, and love for people that would characterize his entire life. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and important, whether they were a lifelong friend or someone he had just met.
On July 22, 1962, Pete married Martha Luther, the love of his life and his faithful partner in every season. During their 63 year marriage, they built a home where family was treasured, hospitality was freely given, and Christ was at the center.
Pete earned his Master’s degree in Reproductive Physiology from Louisiana State University before pursuing his lifelong calling. He graduated with his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Texas A&M University in 1966. He began his career in Perryville, Missouri, where he practiced for two years before returning to Louisiana. In 1968, he opened his own practice, General Animal Hospital, in Covington. After selling his practice, he continued his life’s work as part of the team at Ponchatoula Animal Hospital from 2004 until 2026.
Over the decades, thousands of families entrusted their animals to Dr. Hendry’s care. What they often discovered was that Pete cared just as much for the people holding the leash as he did for the pet on the exam table. Whether you knew him as Peter Rabbit, Doc, Dr. Pete, Pete, Dr. Hendry, Dad, or Daddy Pete, you likely experienced his warm smile, encouraging words, and unhurried concern for others.
Pete's greatest passion, however, was his faith in Jesus Christ. He exemplified the command of Christ found in Matthew 22:37-39: to love God with all his heart, soul, and mind, and to love his neighbor as himself. He was a founding member of Tammany Christian Fellowship in 1973 that eventually became Trinity Evangelical Free Church in Covington. He faithfully served the church as an elder and in numerous ministries, including men's Bible studies and breakfasts. In 1978, he was also a founding board member of Northlake Christian School, helping establish a legacy of Christian education that continues today.
Pete also possessed a quiet determination that often surprised people. In 1988, he completed a marathon, proving that beneath his gentle demeanor was a man of remarkable perseverance.
Pete is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Hendry; his son, Jim Hendry and wife Debbie of Mandeville; and his daughter, Susie Hendry Brown and husband Jeff of Mandeville. He was a proud grandfather to Evan Hendry; Sarah Kate Hendry; Dr. Jeffrey Brown (Dr. Eryn Brown and their daughter, Mary); James Brown (Kiersten Brown and their daughter, Esther); Elizabeth Singletary (Jonathan Singletary and their children, Auden and Ellis); and Rebekah Bellanger (Cayden Bellanger).
Though he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the assurance that he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Evangelical Free Church, 19380 N. 10th Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433, with a reception immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to the ministry of Trinity Evangelical Free Church.
E.J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. Please sign the guestbook at https://www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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