James W. Henderson

James William Henderson passed away on April 28, 2023, after a lengthy illness, while in the care of the Christiana Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware. James, better known as Jimmy to close friends and family, was born in Chester, Pennsylvania, to the late James P. Henderson and Willie Mae Douglas, on April 16, 1944. Raised in Media, Pennsylvania, he was a student and stand-out athlete in the Nether Providence school system. After graduating from high school, he attended Delaware State College on a basketball scholarship and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History in 1966. Jimmy worked as a Director of Corrections, managing resident reintegration programs and resident management. Jimmy was known for his kind and generous nature. His love for his friends was unwavering. As was his devotion to the Philadelphia Eagles and the DSU Hornets. He enjoyed spending time with his crew at Diane’s, with fellow alumni at Delaware State’s annual homecoming weekend, and vacationing with his family in the Outer Banks. He was the husband of Beatrice M. Webster for 24 years. When they married in 1999, he gained two bonus daughters, Audra Wimbush, and Dana Townes, through their union. More importantly, he took on the role of the grandfather to Bea’s grandchildren, Season Cooper, Destiny Cooper, and Dane Wimbush. He easily stepped into the role and loved being their Pop-Pop. The adoration was mutual; for many years he was just known as “my-Pop-Pop”. Jimmy was an active member of St. Daniels United Methodist Church. He attended regularly and served wherever and whenever he needed or saw a need. He was a member of the United Methodist Men, the Board of Trustees, and was a supporter of church activities until he was unable, due to his health. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Jamel Brown, great-grandson Dominic Johnson, three sisters Elizabeth Richardson, Dorothy Shaw, and Ruth Wilson, and brothers Paul Douglas, David, Robert, Lafenus, Donald, Lankford, and Alvin Wilson. He is survived by his wife Beatrice M. Henderson, his two daughters, Jaime Wilson, and Aisha Hollis, two stepdaughters, previously mentioned, two sisters Anne Corbitt and Drucilla Freeman, a brother Rodney Wilson, sisters -in-law Loretta Wilson, Barbara Wilson, and Jane Mayes. Also left to cherish his memory are 12 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren and special friends Kennard Seeny, Alonzo Corbitt, Chet Jordan, Ann Carter, and his devoted caregiver Bruce Forman. We also respectfully acknowledge a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family whom Jim loved so much.

James W. Henderson

April 16, 1944 - April 28, 2023