Chad Thomas Henderson

Chad was born to Jonny and Teresa Henderson and was raised alongside his younger brother, Tyler, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. From an early age, he showed signs of a bright intellect, a mischievous spirit, and a deep fondness for silliness, qualities that shaped his character and defined how he connected with others throughout his life. Chad graduated from Broken Arrow High School, where he participated in theater, forming lasting friendships and discovering a passion for drama. He credited this experience, along with other influences, for making him consider the future. This time in his life was exceptionally memorable to him. Growing up, he played baseball, and his love of the game turned from playing Little League into umpiring in the minor leagues as a young man. He enjoyed the game as a fan as an adult, sharing that love with his family.

In 2010, Chad met the love of his life, Brittany (Groves). Their connection was instant, and within a year they were married, certain they had found their forever in each other. In their vows, they promised to remain the best of friends throughout their lives, a promise they lovingly kept. Together, they built a beautiful family, blending their lives with Chad’s son, Aidan, and later welcoming their son, Ford. The four of them shared countless adventures like cheering on the Cubs, traveling to new places, relaxing by the pool, enjoying the outdoors, and simply treasuring time together. Their days were filled with laughter, joy, and memories that will live on forever. Strong when it was needed and gentle when it mattered most, Chad’s greatest joy was his family. He loved Brittany and his boys with all his heart and was immeasurably proud of the life they built together.

Chad had a curious mind and a deep love of science. He was endlessly fascinated by the mysteries of the universe and rarely passed up a documentary about black holes. He preferred nonfiction, often choosing a technical manual over a novel, and embraced lifelong learning as a personal mission. Constant self-improvement marked his adulthood. Education and the pursuit of knowledge were deeply important to him, and he prioritized his children’s educational opportunities. Providing them with greater possibilities and opening doors for their futures was one of his greatest motivations and sources of pride.

Clever and funny, he was always ready with a goofy voice or playful joke to bring a smile to his family. Chad was also a gifted storyteller. His retellings of past events, especially stories from his younger days, were captivating and hilarious. One such story became treasured family lore, complete with a slightly irreverent catchphrase that came to symbolize overcoming challenges, something Chad did exceptionally well. His writing was equally remarkable. He had a natural way with words and an ability to put his thoughts to paper with clarity and heart. Chad always chose the perfect card and wrote the most meaningful sentiments for special occasions. While he could tell a great story, he was also an exceptional listener. He had a gift for making whoever he was with feel important, a friend, and included.

A natural challenger of limits, Chad rarely accepted the word “can’t.” Though academics were not his focus in high school, he refused to let that hold him back. With determination and grit, he pursued higher education at Oklahoma State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems. The young man no one expected to graduate high school, much less go to college, graduated summa cum laude, with calculus as his favorite course.

Chad built a successful career in the technology industry, working as a software developer and data engineer with both small businesses and large corporations. He was a true advocate for the underdog, dedicating time as a mentor to men who had been incarcerated and were seeking new opportunities in technology-related careers. While his perseverance, work ethic, and sharp mind defined his professional success, it was his heart, humor, and resilience that left the most lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know and love him. He would want that part of his life remembered over any professional accomplishment.

We are returning him to the universe, wrapped in all the love and light we can give. He would smile at the thought of being star stuff again. Our love for him is infinite.

He is survived by his wife, Brittany Henderson; his sons, Aidan and Ford Henderson; his parents, Jonny and Teresa Henderson; his brother, Tyler Henderson, and his wife, Amy; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Lynn and Patricia Groves; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Zachary and Adrianne Groves; as well as several nieces, a nephew, and many other family and friends counted as such.