Cecil Matthew Henderson Jr.

Cecil M. Henderson, Jr., of Leesburg, Florida, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 3, 2026, surrounded by close family. He was 88 years old. A native Floridian, Cecil was born in West Palm Beach on August 31, 1937, the only child of Cecil M. Henderson, Sr. and Iris Lentile Henderson, who preceded him in death. Cecil graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1955 and went on to attend St. Petersburg Junior College and the University of Florida. He also completed the Florida Department of Transportation’s two-year in-service training program for highway engineers. Throughout his career, Cecil wore many professional hats. He was a Registered Professional Engineer, Registered Land Surveyor, Certified General Contractor, and Realtor. His career included work with the Florida Department of Transportation and the City of Clearwater, as well as serving as a consulting engineer in Key West. Retirement did little to diminish Cecil’s interest in staying busy and engaged. He enjoyed following and trading stocks on the New York Stock Exchange, playing cards with a select group of friends, and dining out with his wife, Shirley. The two became familiar faces at many local restaurants around Leesburg. Cecil also remained close to his Fort Myers High School classmates throughout his life. He faithfully attended his class reunions and treasured the friendships and memories they shared over the years. Cecil cared deeply for his family and was always generous with those closest to him. He is survived by his wife of over 26 years, Shirley Henderson; his sons, Jeff Mann, George Mann III, Greg Pankow, and Matt Henderson, and their families, including five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Shirley’s children, Lynn Wilson, Cinda Wilson, Mike Wilson, and Rob Wilson, and their families, including nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will be held on what would have been Cecil’s 89th birthday, August 31, 2026, at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Club in Leesburg, Florida. A graveside service will follow on September 1, 2026, in Cape Coral, Florida. Cecil lived a long life rooted in Florida, family, friendship, and a genuine enjoyment of the people and pursuits that mattered to him. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.