Charles Dudley Henson's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Charles Dudley Henson
Charles Dudley Henson, devoted husband and cherished father, peacefully departed this life on April 27, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at home.
Charles, affectionately known as Chuck and Uncle CD, was born on January 31, 1931 in Coushatta, Louisiana to Roosevelt and Camilla Henson. At the age of 11, his family relocated to Houston, Texas. Chuck was raised in Houston, Texas and Berkeley, California (Uncle Melton). Chuck was one of four siblings: three brothers, R.D. Henson (deceased), Floyd Henson (deceased), and a sister, Mattie Grays (deceased).
Chuck proudly served in the United States Army for 30 years with duty assignments throughout the United States, Germany, as well as tours of duty in Vietnam and Korea. Following his military career, he worked as a contractor with COBRA at Fort Lewis and later with the Washington State Department of Transportation in Olympia until his retirement in 1991.
In 1963, Chuck met Barbara Neal and married in 1965. They were blessed with two daughters. They shared 59 years of marriage until his passing. Chuck is survived by his wife Barbara, daughters Carla Henson-Perez (Sergio) of Tracy, CA and Paula Henson-Williams (Harry) of Frederickson, WA, sister-in-law Phyllis Morris of Draper, UT, brother-in-law Marvin Neal (Janet) of Alpharetta, GA and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.
At an early age, Chuck committed his life to Christ. He was a long-time member of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Lakewood, WA and later became a member of New Life Baptist Church in Lacey, WA. Chuck attended services faithfully until his health no longer allowed him to attend services.
Known for his love of reading the newspaper and the Bible, Chuck stayed informed about local and global events. He was meticulous and had a talent for organization. His hobbies included working in the yard, planting and tending to beautiful flowers that adorned their home. Chuck had a love for cars, fixing and assisting others with their automotive needs. Chuck was also skilled in-home improvement projects and enjoyed road trips during his retirement.
Chuck will be remembered for his smile, friendliness, positive attitude, kindness and love for his family.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on May 14, 2024 at New Life Baptist Church, 7838 Pacific Avenue SE, Lacey, WA. Visitation/viewing will begin at 11:00 a.m. and service will begin at 12:00 p.m.
Interment will be held on May 15, 2024 at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA at 11:00 a.m. If you plan to attend, please arrive no later than 10:30 a.m.
May Chuck rest in peace, and may his memory continue to bless all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or the National Kidney Foundation.
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