Donald C. Henderson

Donald C. Henderson, 91, of Birmingham, passed from this life to the next on Palm Sunday, April 10, 2022. He is survived by Elaine, his wife of over 60 years, three children, Kevin (Sue), Brad, and Carol, six grandchildren: Sean, Ryan, Samantha, Sarah Grace, Caylen, and Jordan, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ely B. and Mittie Mae Henderson, and his sister, Jewell Henderson Maury.

Born in Chickasaw, AL, on Easter morning, April 5, 1931, he would later live in various places around Birmingham through the years: Avondale, Inglenook, Edgewood, and finally North Shelby County. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a degree in Business Administration in 1954, he spent four years in the Air Force, with the Caribbean Air Command in the Canal Zone, Panama, being honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Don’s entire career after the Air Force years was spent with the Social Security Administration, primarily in the position of Congressional Claims Specialist, making sure over the years that many people received the benefits to which they were entitled. He retired in 1986.

He enjoyed writing essays, reminiscing about his life’s experiences, reading about history, and encouraging the zinnias, morning glories, and brown-eyed Susans he loved. But his deepest love was reserved for his family, especially the woman with whom he spent his years creating a home and a life together, and who stayed by his side throughout his final year. His happy place was sitting on the deck with Elaine, talking about the thoughts of their hearts.

Don was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church for his entire adult life. There will be a private family graveside in the coming days.