Abraham Henderson, Jr.

The book of life opened for Deacon Abraham “Jack” Henderson, Jr.,  June 18, 1947 in West Monroe, Louisiana. He was the oldest of eight siblings born to the union of the late Abraham and Reva Lorese Henderson. He entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, January 15, 2020.

He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Billy Henderson and Albert Henderson, and two sisters, Bobbie Jo Wickerson and Willie Ruth Henderson.

Jack confessed Christ at an early age at the Trenton Baptist Church where he currently serviced as the Chairman of the Deacon Board, Sunday Teacher of Class # 5, and advisor to the Brotherhood.  He was a thorough Bible Scholar that was always looking to enrich his knowledge by attending United Theological Seminary classes for Sunday School teachers. Jack was a “praying” deacon that loved his church family. His favorite hymn was “I Love the Lord, He Heard My Cry.” At the close of devotion, you can count on him singing “I Don’t Know what I’d do without the Lord!” along with a shout “I know He’s Alright!”

He graduated from Richardson High School in 1965. After graduation, Jack attended Grambling State University. He then enlisted in the United States Navy where he served 27 years until his retirement. After retirement, he enrolled in University of Louisiana Monroe where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree. The drive and determination that helped Jack complete the goal of graduating college, served as an example for all his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews to further their educations beyond high school.

During his time in the United States Navy, Jack was a Chief Petty Officer. He saw many places during his tours of duty. He was a Vietnam War veteran. Later, he was stationed in Monroe, LA and served as a Navy Recruiter. He was the first Black Navy recruiter in Monroe, LA. After serving as a recruiter in his hometown, he completed his twilight tour at Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA where he worked with the Navy ROTC. Some medals received during his tour were: National Defense Service Medal (2nd), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/Bronze Star, Meritorious Unit Commendation (3rd), Navy Achievement Medal, Battle “E” Efficiency Ribbon (2nd), Gold Wreath Recruiting Award (Twelve), and Good Conduct Medal (3rd).

Upon receiving his Bachelor of Science Degree, he taught at Martin Luther King Middle School briefly. Jack also worked as an Insurance Agent.

He served as Commander in Chief of American Legion F.D. Thompson Post 521.

Jack was in the masonic order where he was initiated as a Master Mason on December 20, 1972 into the Trenton Lodge Number 195, Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall Affiliation of West Monroe, Louisiana. He served as Worshipful Master of the Lodge for many years and the 14th Masonic District as Historian for 2017-2020.  He was also a member of Widow’s Son Chapter Number 14, Holy Royal Arch Masons of Monroe, Louisiana where he served as the Principal Sojourner and was bestowed Honorary Past High Priest by the Most Excellent Grand High Priest, A. D. Teno, III in July 2013 in Vidalia, Louisiana.  

He was a die-hard Grambling State University fan. Jack attended games and supported the Tigers whenever he got the opportunity.

Jack valued family. Jack was the patriarch of the Henderson family. Out of all the achievements and accomplishments that he earned, the titles of big brother, cousin, uncle, friend, daddy, paw-paw, and husband were the ones he cherished the most. One of the greatest moments of Jack’s life was when he met and married the love of his life, Ernestine J. Mannings.  His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife of  43 years, Earnestine;  four sons, Minister Dwight Bosworth (Chantel) of Baton Rouge, LA; Keary Young (Marketta) of Portsmouth, VA; Marvin Beavers of Killeen, TX; and Ricky Edwards (Twanna) of Bossier City, LA; three daughters, Kimberly Singleton (Charles) of Bossier City, LA; Brande Henderson of Monroe, LA; and Dawn Harper (Tobias) of Monroe, LA; eighteen grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one brother, Robert Henderson of West Monroe, LA; two sisters, Jean Henderson of West Monroe, LA and Pat Henderson of Monroe, LA;  two sisters-in-law, Beverly Henderson of Monroe, LA and Florine Moses of Natchitoches, LA; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and his Church Family.

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