Flora Elizabeth Henderson

Flora Elizabeth Henderson, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2024, in her hometown of Columbus, Ohio. Born on October 2, 1946, Flora was an anointed vessel who touched the lives of countless individuals with her kindness, compassion, and commitment to serve in her church and community.

Flora was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio to the late Richard Calvin Taylor and Helen James Taylor. As a child she was a student at Beatty Park Elementary school and was involved with Paxey’s Charm School. As a member of Second Baptist Church, Flora was involved in the youth choir, concord (ecumenical) choir, orchestra, and Girl Scouts. During her adolescence, she was active in various arts, such as ballet, tap and piano. Flora attended Champion Junior High school where she pursued the violin and clarinet in concert band. Her love for instrumental music continued when she attended East High School and participated in the orchestra and marching band. Flora graduated from East High School in 1964 and attended Central State University. In 1968, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in education.

During the fall of 1968, Flora began her illustrious 31-year career as teacher in the Columbus Public School system. She belonged to a crop of young black educators ready to impact the lives of urban elementary school children. Flora specialized in reading as she went above and beyond to ensure each student felt valued and appreciated. Flora’s teaching career consisted of multiple elementary schools in various parts of the Columbus Public School district until her retirement in 1999.

Despite her retirement, Flora volunteered as a tutor wherever she was needed and continued tutoring children in her home during the pandemic. On October 28, 1978, Flora married the late James Ross Henderson who also dedicated his life towards teaching in the Columbus Public School system. Throughout their 39 years of matrimony, James and Flora shared a common compassion towards education. On January 11, 1980, Flora was blessed with a son, James Taylor Henderson, affectionately known as J.T. Beyond her professional career, Flora dedicated her life to serving the house of God in various capacities of ministry. As a charter member of Good Shepherd Baptist church, she participated in the Gospel choir and taught Vacation Bible School. Flora’s compassion for children continued as she accepted the role to direct the Buds of Promise children’s choir at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church.

As she continued to touch the lives of countless individuals, build strong relationships, and leave a lasting impression to all she encountered, Flora became an advocate for single parents as she founded Women with Courage at Rhema Christian Center. Throughout the 20-year tenure of Women with Courage, the ministry served in various capacities including children’s coat drives, baby bottle fundraisers and decision health centers. The organization also provided workshops that dealt with prayer and keys to Christian parenting. Flora’s heart remained full of joy as she witnessed the lives impacted from Women with Courage. While attending Rhema Christian Center, Flora also became a licensed minister, personal worker, and prayer counselor. For the last year, Flora has attended Christ Memorial Baptist Church who’ve embraced her with open arms. Flora always accepted the call to pray for people, no matter the time of day. She was a faithful servant indeed.

Flora will always be remembered as a compassionate and dedicated mother, wife, friend, and teacher. Her legacy of love, kindness and commitment to education and ministry will continue to bless many for generations to come. Flora leaves behind her son, James Taylor Henderson (Ardena); grandson, Joshua Timothy Henderson; sister-in-law, Veronica B. Green (Clarence); and niece, Holly Henderson. Flora also leaves special cousins, many lifelong friends, and countless adopted family members.
May she rest eternally in the arms of her Heavenly Father.

Flora Elizabeth Henderson, age 77.

Sunrise October 2, 1946 and Sunset January 8, 2024.

Visitation 10:00 AM and Funeral Service 11:00 AM Thursday, January 18, 2024 at Christ Memorial Baptist Church 3330 E. Livingston Ave.

Please click here to view program.