Robert L. Henderson

Born May 23, 1938, Bob was the youngest child of the late Carl P. and Ruth (Beveridge) Henderson. He grew up in Irondale, Ohio and attended Muskingum College where he played varsity baseball, was a member of the Mace fraternity and most importantly followed in his parents’ footsteps with a degree in Education and the goal of becoming a coach. He also received a Master’s in Education Administration from Kent State University.

Bob’s life was committed to public education, especially to the students where he lived. Beginning his career at Brilliant Local, he coached the 1963 boys basketball team to the regional semi-finals, which brought him to the attention of Canton City Schools. In 1964 he began at Lehman High School as teacher and coach. He went on to serve Canton City Schools for 28 years, as principal of Lehman High School, McKinley High School, and various other administrative positions, eventually retiring after serving 3 years as Superintendent. During his superintendency, he represented Canton as one of the founding members of the Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding, a group that to this day continues to work for a fairer way of funding public schools in Ohio. Among his many achievements, he was most proud of the reorganization of the district in the late 1970s and he opened the new McKinley Senior High as principal. After retiring from Canton City Schools, he served the area for another 10 years at Stark State College leading the Tech Prep program.

Bob led a full life of service and family. He loved golfing, reading, history and deep conversations on a wide range of topics. He remained steadfastly optimistic about the Cleveland Browns to the end. He was happy to make time for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren showing up for soccer games, swim meets, plays and concerts.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Ann Weals. He is survived by his wife of 43 years Louise, his daughters Julie Henderson (Lou Bernard), Jill (Darrel) Burket, Megan Henderson (Dennis George) and stepdaughters Christine (Don) Fulton and Cheryl (The Honorable Russell) Kendig, as well as nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Dr. John Henderson, as well as numerous treasured nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A visitation will be held at Karlo-Libby Funeral Home, located at 5000 Everhard Road NW, Canton, OH 44718, on January 7, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, Bob’s wish was that donations be made in his honor to the Canton Student Loan Foundation to continue his commitment to all students’ education by helping make education accessible and more affordable. Canton Student Loan Foundation, 4974 Higbee Avenue NW, Suite #204, Canton, Ohio 44718.