We called each other by our last names but we were on a first name basis. I can’t recall the first time I met him probably because I knew him since birth. We went to the same church. But over the years I have had many fond memories of the man I simply called “Henson.”

I started out going to kindergarten at Barbara Henson’s and attended the year the school burned down. Over the years no matter what, the Henson’s faith never wavered. They rebuilt the center better than it was before.

Years later, I returned and worked in their puppet ministry. Along with my brother and sisters we would attend practice each week and get up early on Sunday and travel with the Henson’s on the little yellow school bus to the reservoir to put a church puppet show on for the campers. “Henson” always made it such fun.

As I grew into a teenager, I went to work at the Nursery School part time while in high school. Little did I know that I would work there for around eight years. I didn’t really feel like an employee, rather a member of their family. That’s the way they treated everyone that worked there.

Henson would walk through the room where I was, or the yard and always yell, “Wake up Lewis.” He was always a practical joker and all the children loved him.

I am thankful that my two boys attended daycare there as well and remember him too.

Thank you for allowing me to share some of the many, many fond memories of this honest, kind and compassionate man. I was deeply saddened by his passing yesterday, but I know that he is resting in the arms of God.

I would like to say one final word.

Thank you for being a part of my life. You have touched many. We will forever remember the times we shared. Rest in Peace Dear “Henson.”



Teri Lewis Kennedy

Meridian