Althea Rosa Henderson

Reflectionon the Life

of

Althea R. Henderson

Althea R. Henderson- A devoted single parent, grandparent, great grandparent, daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin and friend. Her infectious smile and hospitality could make anyone feel welcome. Althea was born in Canton, OH on March 29,1954 and received her wings in Bakersfield, CA on April 7, 2020. Heeding the call to "Go West", Althea, along with her only child Demetrius, who she nick-named "Trigger", left family and friends in Canton, OH and settled in Oxnard, CA. She was only 26 years young when she made the courageousmove to California. Like many single parents, Althea searched for a job that would guarantee the most income. Rejecting traditional low-paying female work, she applied for a position as a welder with the C.E. Miller Company- one woman among 750 men. She got the job! Althea quickly showedthe men workers that anything they could do; she could also do. That's the typeof strong woman she was. When the C.E. Miller Company closed, a friend suggested"the phone company" which is today known as Verizon. Again, she got the job. She worked at Verizon for over 20 years before she retired. Post retirement, Althea spent the remainder of her life dedicated to taking care of her mother Aileene, for a period of 14 years, until Aileene passed away on January 29, 2019.

So, we see a little of Althea the mother, the grandmother and the coworker, but we haven't even mentioned that ability that makes us all call on her time and time again- "sing for us, Althea, sing for us." Althea started singing in the Baptist church choir when she was three. By the time she was sixteen, with parent supervision, she was singing Rhythm & Blues and Soul Music with bands in the Canton, Ohio area. After moving to California, she has sung in many clubs, benefits, and programs in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and Ventura County. Each appearance opened the door for more requests for her to appear. Although Althea performed at several venues, she made it clear that singing was more of her hobby than her profession. Nevertheless, Althea could always be counted on to bless her family with her beautiful voice.

Family and friends describe Althea as a warm, tender, caring soul who touched the heart of most everyone she'd come in contact with. She was special. The love and joy that exuded from her could be felt through her music which touched so many. There was a feeling of joy and happiness while in her presence. Whenever she would receive friends and family, and visitors from out of state, there was never a worry about a place to stay nor food to eat. When called on by her nieces and nephews, her honest advice and wisdom could always be counted on. She was and always will be a strong role model for the young women in the family. Althea will always be remembered as an iconic spirit among all who were fortunate to know her.

Altheawas preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Aileen Henderson. She is survived by her son, Demetrius Henderson; four siblings, William (Lori) Henderson, Charles Henderson, Veronica (Michael) Cheek and Dean Henderson; two grandsons, DeAndre and Malik Henderson and two great-grandsons Malachi Henderson and Santiago Henderson.

God knew how special you are and so he called upon your name. No more sadness no more pain. Your wings are flying high, no goodbyes, the most beautiful Angel shining like a diamond in the sky. Until we see you again our beloved. You are our morning star shining brightly beside us. We will keep this love through all eternity because ain't no mountain high enough, ain't no valley low enough, ain't no river wide enough to keep us from loving you. This is not a goodbye our precious angel Althea Rosa Henderson but "Until We Meet Again



In a bittersweet moment

Another Angel has

Found their Wings

& has set off on flight

Safe into the arms of God

& to those gone before them

Waiting & anticipating

Their arrival as they make

Their way into Heaven



Many of you have asked how you can make a donation to help out the family during this difficult time. For those who are able, and interested in making a contribution, the ways that you can contribute are listed below. Thank You and God Bless All of You

Donations can be sent via:

Mail to: Demetrius Henderson 9801 Snowdon Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93311

Via Phone App: VENMO @Demetrius-Henderson-1 Or ZELLE 6617176126

Via Online: Paypal.com paypal.me/AltheaHend