Visitation for Joe and his family will be March 3rd, 2024 at Rice Funeral Home in Claremore, OK from 5.00pm to 7.00pm. The service will be held March 4th, 2024 at Claremore First Baptist Church at 11.00am with a graveside at Woodlawn Cemetery to follow.

Joe William Henderson, a cherished pillar of the Claremore community and a beacon of selfless service, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2024, at the age of 90. Born on July 13, 1933, in Council Hill, Oklahoma, to William Thomas Henderson and Anna Lee Shepherd, Joe's life was a testament to his unwavering faith, love for his family, and dedication to improving the lives of those around him.

Joe's journey began alongside his beloved wife, Emma Louise Henderson, whom he married on December 14, 1952. Their union was a harmonious blend of love and partnership that lasted 56 years until Louise's passing. Together, they fostered a home filled with love, patience, and kindness, qualities that Joe exemplified throughout his life.

Joe married Ruth Marie Sorenson on October 10, 2009, at First Baptist Church in Claremore, Oklahoma. They enjoyed the adventures of traveling.

A proud veteran, Joe served his country with honor in the United States Army. His commitment to service continued long after his military days as he became a cornerstone of the First Baptist Church of Claremore. As Chairman of Trustees, Joe's leadership was instrumental in the construction of the church's worship center and the remodeling of the education building. His spiritual devotion shone brightly as he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher, guiding many towards a path of faith and compassion.

Joe's passion for nurturing the potential in others was evident in his commitment to fostering children, mentoring, and coaching little league baseball. He believed in the power of community and invested his time and resources into building Pecan Park and a local T-Ball field, ensuring that the youth of Claremore had a place to play, learn, and grow.

As a business owner, Joe's entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his integrity and honesty. He was a role model to many, always looking for the best in people and encouraging them to strive for excellence. His legacy as a community builder is further cemented by his tireless efforts to give back and improve the lives of his fellow residents.

Joe's interests extended beyond his immediate surroundings. He was an avid traveler, always eager to explore new places and cultures. Yet, no matter how far he roamed, his heart remained firmly rooted in Claremore, where he dedicated himself to building and bettering his community.

Those who knew Joe would describe him as loving, selfless, and friendly. He approached life with a warm smile and an open heart, ready to lend a hand or share a kind word. Joe's presence was a comfort to many, and his actions inspired countless individuals to follow in his footsteps of generosity and service.

Joe William Henderson's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of devotion, altruism, and community spirit. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to resonate within the hearts of those he touched. As we bid farewell to this exceptional man, we celebrate the profound impact he made on the world and the countless lives he enriched with his presence.

Joe's memory will be cherished and kept alive by the many people whose lives he touched. His spirit of love and service will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us all to seek the best in others and to contribute positively to the world around us.

As we reflect on Joe's remarkable life, we are reminded of the enduring power of a life well-lived. His story is one of unwavering commitment to faith, family, and community—a story that will be told with admiration and gratitude for years to come. Joe William Henderson, a true servant of his community and a loving husband, dad, and granddad, will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Joe is survived by his wife Marie; three of his four children, son, Ronny Henderson of Claremore, daughter, Terri Henderson of North Richland Hills, Texas, and daughter, Shelley Burnett and her husband Terry, also of Claremore; his two granddaughters Robyn Burnett of Foyil, and Brittney Rodebush and her husband Eric of Pryor; foster son Otis Muns and his son Brodie, his step children, David Sorensen and wife Brenda, of Stillwater, Debra Torres, of Pryor, Diana Laney, of Houston Texas. Lorrie Sorensen, of Tahlequah, and many step grand kids and great grand kids whom they all called Poppa Joe.

He was preceded in death by his wife Louise Henderson, son James William Henderson, his parents, and sisters, Betty Neumeyer, Shirley MaGuire, and Janey Miller.