Traci Leigh Henderson

Traci Leigh Henderson, 56, died on September 30, 2026. She was a resident of Surprise, Arizona. Born on May 18, 1970, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Traci grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, where her steady warmth and quiet strength began to show in the way she met the world—with grace, sincerity, and an abiding respect for others.

Traci attended Marion High School in Omaha and later the College of St. Mary, also in Omaha. Her life’s work reflected a deep regard for children and families. Before marriage, she served as a social worker in child protective services and in foster care and adoption, bringing patience and compassion to some of life’s most difficult circumstances. She later worked as a School Aide at Freedom Traditional Academy in Surprise, a place that became especially dear to her. She also devoted herself fully to her family as a stay-at-home mom when her children were young.

At Freedom Traditional Academy, Traci was known to many as “Miss Traci,” and she cherished her work—especially with the “littles.” She met students with an unfailing smile and a calm, generous patience that made them feel safe and seen. The happiness on their faces when they spotted her spoke to the gentle steadiness she carried into each day.

On June 3, 2006, Traci married Jeff Henderson. Together they built a home centered on love, care, and the simple joys of being together. She was a devoted mother to her sons, Ben (20) and Max (18), and her love for family was evident in the life she nurtured around them.

Traci’s early love of horse riding included hunter/jumper pursuits when she was younger. She also enjoyed Huskers football and college baseball, and she delighted in the companionship of her dachshunds, Lola and Harry. Some of the most treasured times were family vacations on the beach in Florida—days shaped by sunlight, laughter, and the comfort of shared memories.

Traci was preceded in death by her parents, Betty and Lee Ellerbroek, and her brother John. She is survived by her husband, Jeff Henderson; her children, Ben and Max; her brother David; her sister Melanie; and her nieces and nephews: John, Annie, Zach, Christie, and Mark.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all of her friends, family, and co-workers, and to the doctors and nurses at Ironwood Cancer Center and Banner Del Webb Hospital for their care and support.

Traci carried forward a guiding truth her father often shared: “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” In her daily choices—again and again—she lived that lesson, choosing kindness over anger and leaving behind a legacy of quiet goodness that will be remembered with enduring respect and love.

A Memorial Service will be held at Surprise Funeral Care, 16063 W. Bell Rd, Surprise, AZ 85374, US, on October 12, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to ALS and/or Breast Cancer research.