Willie James Henderson

Willie James Henderson, affectionately known as “Brother,” passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 79. A proud veteran, loving husband, supportive father, and loyal friend, Willie’s life was rich in love, laughter, and purpose.

Born on April 24, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Willie and Minnie Henderson, he graduated from East High School. Upon graduation, he worked for the American Electric Power Company as a Lineman and later enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served with honor for 20 years. He rose to the rank of Master Sergeant Select and held roles such as Vehicle Operations Supervisor, Cable Maintenance Technician, and Fuel System Specialist. He completed multiple levels of leadership training and military education, including NCO Leadership School and the NCO Academy.

Willie’s commitment to excellence earned him numerous honors throughout his career, including:

• Air Force Good Conduct Medal with five oak leaf clusters

• Air Force Commendation Medal

• Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with one oak leaf cluster

• NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon with one oak leaf cluster

• Air Force Longevity Service Award with three oak leaf clusters

• National Defense Service Medal

• Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon with two oak leaf clusters

• Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon

• Air Force Training Ribbon

After retiring from military service in 1989, Willie worked for 15 years at Anheuser-Busch as an Operations Technician, retiring in 2004 and relocating to Florida. He became an active member of the First Baptist Church of Beverly Hills, where he was baptized and served as a Youth Program Assistant. He was also active in the Afro American Club and enjoyed RVing with friends and family.

Known for his “tell-it-like-it-is” honesty and sharp sense of humor, Willie loved classic cars, fishing, playing cards, and spending time with friends at the Taste of Soul social club.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 27 years, Tanya Henderson, and his children: Anthony Henderson, Nikee (James) Swanson, Vania Henderson (Mauro Meuli), Roberto Henderson (Alessia Demarco), Shiela Henderson, Norman Hawkins, Nathaniel (Amber) Hawkins, Ebony (Jamel) Simmons, Valdez Henderson, Shawn Henderson, Aaron Henderson, Tyrek Henderson, Destiny Henderson, Nashia Henderson, Taylor Henderson, and Lael Henderson. In addition to his immediate family, he leaves behind a host of cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He is also survived by his sister, Carrie Perdue, and cherished lifelong friends, Buford and Barbara Jackson. He was preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy Crump, and his brother, John “Freddie” Henderson.

Willie’s legacy is one of strength, love, and laughter—and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven.”