Mr. Lee Otis Henderson's Obituary
On February 14, 1961, I was born in Meridian, Mississippi to some loving, hard working parents by the name of Rose Ann Kelly Henderson & John Henderson. As the middle child of three there is nothing that could separate me from the love of my sister, Kathy Henderson Price of Enterprise, Mississippi and younger brother, Terry Henderson of Meridian, Mississippi. I learned how to work hard from my dad and to be kind and loving from my momma. We have a big family the Lord blessed on both sides who I will always love and cherish.
I graduated from Meridian High School in 1979 and later that summer feeling the need for adventure to see more than a small town, I joined the United States Army. After graduating from Fort Dix, New Jersey I enlisted to become an 88M, Motor Transport Operator. My first duty station was in Germany with the 4th Transportation Command, 1st Transportation Company. While in Germany, I received many commendations and awards for serving my country. During my military career, I was fortunate to travel to different countries, Italy, France, Germany, Denmark, just to name a few. I made many memories that I later shared.
After four years in Germany, I was reassigned to “The Great Place of Fort Hood, Texas” with the historical 1st Cavalry Division. While at Fort Hood, I was promoted to the rank of sergeant and in charge to take care of the men and women in my section. I loved taking care of people and always lived to serve others. During my time in the military, I had many stories to share with my family. I had made lifelong friends that no matter where I traveled in the world, I could always pick up the phone and find a friend close by. I have never met a stranger I did not know.
On November 13, 1983 in Meridian, MS, I married my soul mate, my best friend, my high school sweetheart, Dolly. We were blessed with three children Denecka “Nikki, Little Mama” Henderson, Delia “Big Baby” Henderson Greer, David “Boy” Henderson. My son-in-law, Wayne Greer stayed with me until the end. I have 4 grandsons that have had my heart since they were born: Devin Samuel Henderson my oldest, Darrius DeWayne Henderson my second, Dallas Lee Henderson the third born and the one no one would forget, papa baby, Daylon Reese Greer.
After leaving the military, we moved back to Mississippi only for a short while, God had bigger plans for us. We moved to Waco, Texas in 1995 and we were led to Carver Park Baptist Church and was a life-long member. It has been a journey as my health began to fail and yes, I might have been in and out of various hospitals, but I never lost my praise and never questioned the Lord. I was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2004 and the enemy tried to take my joy the Good lord let me see many more years. During that time, I saw Nikki graduate nursing school, Delia blessed me with three beautiful grand boys. When you see me around, I would usually have my boys with me. I got to see David join the army.
My calling was to serve God and he blessed me to serve the community, I volunteered at Hewitt elementary as a watch dog. This brought me joy to see the smiling faces of the children every school day. I volunteered at the church food pantry helping serve those in need.
I loved to drive to Dallas to cut my daughter’s grass; I enjoyed when Delia would come over with the boys and cook a big meal. Summer trips to Washington DC to spend time with my son.Thanksgiving, Dallas Cowboys games became a father son tradition.
I have had a good life. If I had to do it all over, I would not change a thing. The Lord blessed me with meeting many wonderful people throughout my life and led me to be a true servant of the Lord. So, you all go and continue to serve the Lord and live your life with his light shining. I have run my race and won. I made it to the finish line and I am enjoying my victory in God.
What’s your fondest memory of Lee?
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Share a story where Lee's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lee you’ll never forget.
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