Ralph Kenneth Henderson, 84, passed into his eternal rest on Tuesday, May 11, 2010.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Lillie Franklin Henderson; and his sister, Ruby Henderson Davis.
He was a 1944 graduate of Bradley Central High School. He was a veteran of World War II serving with H Company, 9th Infantry Division under General Patton.
He attended Big Spring Baptist Church for 70 years. He was a charter member, Sunday school teacher, and deacon of Blythe Avenue Baptist Church.
He was also involved with the Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief, a crew chief for World Changers, a church builder in conjunction with Tennessee Baptist Brotherhood Builders, and participated in numerous mission trips.
He was the owner of Ralph K. Henderson Construction Co.
He was a member of Cleveland Lodge No. 134 for 60 years. He was also a member of the South Camp of Gideon’s International.
Left to cherish his memory is his best friend and wife of 65 plus years, Ila Mae Jenkins Henderson; three daughters: Gail Cunningham, Susie Starnes and Sara Carroll; son-in-law, Rick Starnes; grandchildren: Michael (Kathryn) Harvey, Diane (Darin) Lafferty, Jason Harvey, Andy Woody, Jeneda Trentham, Casey (Amy) Starnes, Chuck (Marilyn) Carroll, Jakie (Emily) Starnes and Ken (Michelle) Carroll; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson expected.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 this evening at Big Spring Baptist Church.
The funeral will follow with the Rev. Sam Taylor officiating.
Pallbearers will be Michael Harvey, Jason Harvey, Andy Woody, Casey Starnes, Chuck Carroll, Jakie Starnes, Ken Carroll, Michael Harvey II and Matthew Harvey.
A Masonic service will be held graveside Friday at 2 p.m. at Hilcrest Memorial Gardens with military honors to follow.
Memorials may be made to the Gideon’s International, P.O. Box 1163, Cleveland, TN 37364 or Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief, P. O. Box 728, Brentwood, TN 37024-0728
Covenant Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.
www.CovenantFuneral.com
