James Kenneth Henderson, age 94, of Lucedale, MS died Friday, August 11, 2023 at Providence Hospital of Mobile, AL.  Mr. Henderson was born April 17, 1929 in New Hebron, MS. He is the son of the late Robert Ethel Henderson and the late Lena Cone (McMillan) Henderson.  He married Martha Lillian Smith on November 17, 1956.  He was predeceased by his wife on November 10, 1991.  He served his country in the U.S. Army.  He was retired from Ingalls Shipbuilders as a Shipfitter.

The "dash". The little line between April 17, 1929-August 11, 2023 represents a life so full that it seems ridiculous to draw it. James K. Henderson had an amazing 94 years, life full of joy and pain- faith and hope.  He was the last living member of a large close family and he missed them terribly. He talked about his parents and siblings with longing in his voice. He lost his wife and son so early in life that I know he felt an emptiness. He hid his pain well and over these years came to accept what life gave him as he waited to see all of them again in heaven. Daddy dealt with so much tragedy with grace, dignity and honor. He was steadfast in all things. He was generous, hardworking and kind to all. From helping people with car trouble to rescuing abandoned kittens at the garbage dump- he was a helper at heart. His big heart knew no bounds! If you knew my dad- you know how much he loved his flowers and tinkering with lawnmowers. He tried to share that love with me but bless his heart he raised someone without a green thumb. At 94 he was having me deliver plants and flowers to family, friend and even his doctors. He was watering those flowers the evening before he went to the hospital. Preparing many little cups of seedlings to give to others to brighten their life as his was ending. He had the biggest heart! He loved us with his entire being.
Daddy was ready to go. He had told me often over the last few months that when his time came- when the Lord called him home- he was ready. I was not ready. I wish I had listened, slowed down to talk with him, understood what he was trying to tell me. Knowing daddy is walking on those perfect legs to hug his family helps. Knowing we will all be together helps. Knowing he left a legacy to love, kindness, and dedication to me and his grandchildren helps.
Pray for us to find that peace and comfort that only Jesus can provide.

He is survived by; daughter, LeAnne Henderson (Havard) Sanford, 3 grandchildren, Conner Havard, Asher Havard, Haydn (Marissa) Havard, special friend, Bonnie Sullivan

Preceded in death by; wife Martha Lillian Smith Henderson, son James Michael Henderson, grandson George Brein Havard, 5 siblings, Allene Henderson (Reggie) Myers, Robert Guycell (Marynell) Henderson, Willie "Bill Leroy (Jewell) Henderson, Henry Trellis "Dago" (Alene) Henderson, Ethel Jeral (Ruby Jean) Henderson
The funeral will be held 11:00 am on Friday, August 18, 2023 at Barton Baptist Church, Hwy 63 South, Lucedale, MS with Rev. John Henry officiating.  Burial will be in Barton Baptist Church Cemetery, Lucedale, MS.

Calling hours will be Friday, August 18, 2023 from 10:00-11:00am at Barton Baptist Church.

Sigler Funeral Home, 601-947-3112, www.siglerfuneral.com, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS, is in charge of arrangements.