Silsbee native and World Wrestling Entertainment Superstar Mark Henry is mourning the loss of his friend Joan Laurer, better known as Chyna.
Chyna was found dead on Wednesday in her Redondo Beach, California apartment at the age of 45.
Starting in the late 90’s Chyna entertained audiences around the world in the ring for more than a decade off and on.
Mark Henry said he considers his former colleague family.
“Everyone knows her by Chyna but I called her Joanie,” Henry said. “She was a fun loving, had a good sense of humor, loved to play and will be well missed.”
Henry spent many of his 20 years and counting in wrestling, sharing the ring and road with Chyna. At one point the two were kayfabe boyfriend and girlfriend. Henry said he will miss her smile.
“When the cameras weren't rolling Joanie was funny,” Henry said. “She had a good sense of humor. She had kind of a weird dry Seinfeld (like) humor. She will be well missed.”
Henry admits his friend had what he called “demons” but didn’t go into specifics. He hopes she is remembered for what she did in the ring. What will not be known for some time, is how long the “Strongest Man Alive” will be weakened by grief for his friend.
Mark Henry sends his thoughts and prayers to her family.
