Henrietta Swan-Price, a beloved community figure known for her flair, faith, and dedication to service, died recently in Seattle at the age of 87.
She was born June 11, 1938, in Houston to the late Henry Coy Swan and Hilda Darby-Swan. Henrietta was the eldest of nine children. From her parents’ union came seven children: Henreitta*, George*, Louis, Gloria*, Bobbie* and Barbara* (twins), and Wayne*. From her father’s second marriage came Choyce Mae Swan and Lacey Swan*. (* deceased).
Henrietta completed her education in Houston and continued her studies in Seattle at Seattle Community College, where she earned her certification as a licensed practical nurse in the state of Washington.
In 1967, she relocated to Seattle with five of her six daughters to begin work with Boeing Aerospace. Her daughters are Shelia Spenser (William) of Puyallup, Washington; Katherine (Kathy) Simmons of Seattle; Vallerie Fisher-Robinson of Seattle; Anita Williams (Jimmy William Sr.) of Seattle; Theresa Butler (Earious Butler*) of Seattle; and Rita Jousha* of Houston, Texas.
Henrietta later met and married the late Freddie C. Price*. She became a devoted member of Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Norman Mitchell*.
She was affectionately known as “The Hat Lady,” the proud owner of Henrietta’s Hats and Accessories Boutique on Madison Avenue in Seattle, where she also resided for more than 25 years. Her boutique’s motto was: “If the hat that you’re wearing isn’t becoming to you, then you should be coming to Henrietta’s.”
Henrietta’s influence extended well beyond her storefront. She appeared in the live production Crowns: Church Women Hats at the Intiman Theatre and later on the road in Philadelphia. She was a featured presenter for the Black History Hat Tribute at Macy’s, the League of Women Voters Annual Benefit Breakfast, KING 5’s tribute to Queens’ Hats (Fascinators), and The Women’s Club of Seattle Annual Benefit Fundraiser. She facilitated countless church fashion shows and bazaars throughout the city.
She was an active member of the Mothers Board and Nurse Ministry at Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church and served two terms as president of the Nurse Corps for the National Baptist Convention of America.
Henrietta served as a school crossing guard at Leschi Elementary for more than 20 years. Her work was honored with the Washington Education Association’s Elaine E. Community Award, nominated by Leschi staff and parents. She was also recognized with the African American Community Task Force Award for community involvement. Her leadership included service on the Bailey-Boushay House Board of Directors, Model Cities of Inner-City Seattle, and active participation as a PTSA parent.
A dedicated member of civic and fraternal organizations, she served as Past Worthy Matron of Queen of Sheba Chapter #12, Prince Hall Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star; Grand Chaplain and Grand Life Member; and a member of the Imperial Court Daughters Auxiliary of the A.E.A.O.N.M.S., Inc.
Henrietta is survived by five daughters, 26 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. She was lovingly known to many as “Precious.”
She will be deeply missed and remembered for her grace, generosity, and spirited legacy.
