Zelda Annette Henderson

Zelda Annette Timmons-Henderson was born on August 20, 1963, in Huntsville, Alabama, to the late Emmett and Lela (Slaughter) Timmons. She was the third of five daughters and was lovingly known for her warm smile, generous heart, and unwavering love for her family.

Zelda was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Emmett and Lela Timmons, and her cherished sister, Sandra Vanessa Timmons, whose memory she held close to her heart. On July 3, 2026, Zelda peacefully departed this earthly life at the age of 62, surrounded by the love of those who cherished her most.

Raised in Huntsville, Alabama, Zelda attended Huntsville City Schools and graduated from J.O. Johnson High School. She continued her education at Alabama A&M University, where she further developed the determination, perseverance, and strong work ethic that would guide her throughout her life.

Zelda built a successful career through years of faithful and dedicated service. She worked for The Coca-Cola Company in Atlanta, Georgia, for twelve years before beginning a distinguished career with United Parcel Service (UPS), where she served in financial and business operations until her retirement. She approached every responsibility with integrity, professionalism, and quiet determination, earning the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Above all, Zelda treasured her family.

She married Suroy Henderson, and to this union three daughters were born. Zelda was a devoted mother whose greatest joy was raising Amber, Amanda, and Amaya Henderson. They were the center of her world, and she poured into them a lifetime of unconditional love, encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering support. Later, she experienced the immeasurable joy of becoming a grandmother. Her beloved grandchildren, Shabazz and Ayah, became a new source of light in her life, and she cherished every moment spent loving, nurturing, and encouraging them.

Zelda possessed a compassionate heart that naturally drew people to her. She never hesitated to offer a listening ear, comforting words, or a helping hand to anyone in need. Her kindness was genuine, her generosity was effortless, and her joyful spirit brought laughter, peace, and comfort to everyone she encountered. Family gatherings were made richer by her presence, and her quiet strength became a source of reassurance during both life's celebrations and its most difficult seasons.

Beyond her devotion to family and service to others, Zelda embraced life's simple joys. She enjoyed preparing healthy meals for those she loved, exercising, and taking quiet moments to relax and reflect. She found comfort and companionship in caring for her beloved dog, whose faithful presence brought her much happiness. Wherever Zelda went, she had a remarkable ability to brighten the atmosphere. Her infectious laughter, vibrant personality, and joyful spirit filled every room she entered. She loved making people laugh and had a way of making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and at ease. Her presence was a gift that family, friends, and all who knew her will forever cherish.

Gifted with remarkable creativity, Zelda had a special talent for working with her hands. As a child, she delighted in styling beautiful and imaginative hairstyles for her sisters, transforming ordinary moments into expressions of love and artistry. That same generous spirit remained with her throughout her life. She was known for giving freely, even if it meant sacrificing her own needs. Serving others was not simply something Zelda did—it was who she was. She found deep joy in helping others and believed her life's purpose was to love, serve, and give selflessly.

Zelda's faith and resilience were evident throughout every season of her life. She faced life's challenges with extraordinary courage, dignity, and grace. Even during her final days, she demonstrated the heart of a true warrior, remaining steadfast and strong until her peaceful transition. Her unwavering faith, quiet perseverance, and enduring strength inspired all who had the privilege of walking beside her.

Zelda leaves to cherish her precious memory her three loving daughters, Amber, Amanda, and Amaya Henderson; her two beloved grandchildren, Shabazz Shaw and Ayah Shaw; three devoted sisters, Rev. Dr. Deborah Faith Timmons; Cheryl Lynn Timmons-Scruggs (David) of Huntsville, Alabama; and Audrey Timmons Story (Rev. Randy) of Washington, D.C.; one beloved niece, Trinity Story of Washington, D.C.; one beloved nephew, 2LT Randy "RJ" Story of Fort Riley, Kansas; five aunts, Sylvia Timmons Rennicks, Betty Mae Watkins, Jennifer Timmons Laster, Amelia Wiley, and Rev. Stella Slaughter; two uncles, Earl Timmons and William Timmons, both of Huntsville, Alabama; and a host of cherished cousins, relatives, lifelong friends, and all whose lives were touched by her love and kindness.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in knowing that Zelda's earthly journey has given way to eternal peace. Her life was a beautiful reflection of faith, compassion, humility, and unconditional love. She leaves behind a legacy of grace, quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family. While her absence leaves an immeasurable void, her love, laughter, and the countless lives she touched will continue to bear witness to a life beautifully lived. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know and love her. A commemorative balloon release will be held in loving memory of Zelda Annette Timmons-Henderson, celebrating her beautiful life and the lasting impact she made on all who knew her.