Corbit C. Hensley, 98, of Gastonia was a proud Word War II veteran and part of the “greatest generation.” Corbit loved his family and his country. Corbit was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps prior to World War II. He went in to the Army on March 13, 1942 and served until August 17, 1945. He served continuous without taking any leave days. His military service took him from Dillsboro, NC throughout Hawaii, Australia and the Philippines and then finally back home to Dillsboro, NC. Corbit was in an artillery crew as part of MacArthur’s “Island Hopping” campaign that secured the Pacific.
Besides his service in WW II, Corbit was an avid fisherman. You could often find him on a seaside pier or at a trout pond. He was an electrician by trade. He has been a resident of Gaston County since 1950.
Corbit is the son of the late Lura (Sutton) and Jule Hensley. He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Mable Elizabeth (Harkins) Hensley and a son, Jerry Russell Hensley. Corbit is the last of five brothers and sisters.
Left to honor and cherish his memory are his daughter Joy Lackey and husband Willie, grandson Jason Ownsby and four step grandchildren. Also surviving Corbit are four step great grandchildren and one step great-great grandchild.
A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors, accorded by the U.S. Army and the Gaston County Honor Guard will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, April 2, 2018 in the Hillcrest Garden section of Gaston Memorial Park, 1200 S. New Hope Road, Gastonia.
Those who wish to offer expressions of sympathy and share fond memories, please visit Corbit’s guest book at: www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com
The family of Corbit C. Hensley has entrusted his care to the staff at the Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park. We are deeply honored.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Gaston Hospice in memory of Corbit.
