Beverly E Henson

November 22, 1922-September 20, 2012

Beverly Henson died peacefully at her home at Kirkwood Assisted Living in Redding,

California on September 20, 2012. She spent her last few weeks surrounded by her loving

family, devoted friends, and compassionate caregivers who provided support and comfort

during her final days.

Beverly was born in Pittsburgh, California and grew up in the Bay Area, a place that was dear to her heart.

An only child, she was doted on by her father Purvis Spitzer, and mother Olive, who insisted that she have a well-rounded up-bringing which included piano lessons, camping trips to Yosemite, chaperoned parties, and a year at Mills College after her high school graduation.

On December 7, 1941 (the day the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entered into World War II) she went on a blind date with Francis "Earl" Henson. They were married May 10, 1943 in Oakland, California, and spent one night (their honeymoon) at the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley. The following years of WWII Beverly worked at the Alameda Ship Yards while Earl served as a Merchant Seaman. From the early 1940's to the late 1960's, she and Earl lived in Point Richmond, Sacramento, and Pacific Grove. Bev worked hard as an accomplished administrative and legal secretary, while raising four children. During the early 1960's Earl was involved with the dynamic Custom House Redevelopment Project in Monterey and Bev worked for several prestigious law firms and at Hopkins Marine Station in Pacific Grove. In 1967, the family moved to Redding where Earl became the Redevelopment Agency's point man for the new and exciting Redding Indoor Mall. They enjoyed an active social life with friends and family that included hiking, back packing, camping, fishing, house-boating, and entertaining. Challenges, trials, and tragedy could not stop Beverly from participating in life as she faced it with humor and courage.

In 1979, her oldest daughter, Kathleen Henson, died at the age of 30 of cancer. Shortly after that, Beverly was treated for a broken neck and a life threatening spinal injury. She was immobilized for many months, but with her usual spirit and perseverance she learned how to walk and drive again. She subsequently worked in a dress shop and made a trip to Switzerland. She nurtured and contributed to the many activities of a growing family of seven grandchildren, found new joy in playing the piano, and volunteered for over 30 years at Mercy Hospital as a "Pink Lady."

In the late 1980's and again in 2008, Beverly returned to the Monterey Peninsula where she enjoyed life and renewed friendships. She returned to Redding in 2009 to spend time with her grandchildren who provided companionship and care, and attended to her every need. Beverly is survived by her children, David Henson of Redding, Marc Henson of Pacific Grove, Marie Bryant and son-in-law Wayne Dalzell of Cloverdale; Grandchildren, Kathleen Taylor, Amanda Bryant, Christopher Bryant, Robert Bryant, Max Henson and grandson-in-law James Taylor, all of Redding; Anna Henson of Chico, and Tyler Henson of San Louis Obispo.

In accordance with her request, no services will be held. If you feel so inclined, you are invited to contact Marie Bryant via email: [email protected]