LJ Henderson

LJ Henderson, passed away in the early morning hours of May 6, 2025 at his home. Born on February 16, 1949 in Pittsburg, Texas (Camp County), he was the seventh child born to RH and Johnnie Mae (Grant) Henderson. Although he knew he would be missed, he knew that it was time, so when his name was called he turned and left it all to take his Master’s hand. What a beautiful reunion he must have had with his wife, his mother, father, sisters and brothers. Through the years, he became known by many other names such as Pie, Pie Joe, and Shakey. He leaves a rich legacy rooted in Christ to all those who knew and loved him.

LJ attended Douglass from grade school through graduation. Upon earning his high school diploma from Douglass High School in 1967, LJ was drafted into the army, where he served in the Vietnam War. While serving, he received many medals of honor, most notably, The Purple Heart of Freedom for risking his life to save his fellow soldiers. When he returned home, he adjusted to civilian life and began a life-long career in the manufacturing industry. After working for a chair factory and Hazelwood Furniture, he found his career calling at Lone Star Steel, then later at SWEPCO, where he worked until retirement.

For many years, LJ’s daily routine would be to awake before dawn for work and drive to his mother’s home for coffee and lunch made by his sister, Betty Jo. He was considered everyone’s favorite uncle. Upon marrying Mavis, he became a father of five. LJ was a joy to his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Never afraid to tell them that he loved them, his smile and encouraging words will live forever in everyone’s hearts.

Having accepted Christ at an early age, he exhibited a life that was dedicated to the Lord. As a member of Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church, he served in many capacities over the years. Most known for being Deacon Henderson, LJ also led Sunday School as the Superintendent. He could also be seen ministering by serving with the Men’s Usher Board, singing in the Male Chorus, teaching bible study and driving the church van. His nearly lifelong leadership and service to Metropolitan will be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death by wife of 40 years, Mavis Irene Henderson; his parents, RH and Johnnie Mae Henderson and ten siblings: Atradale, Mary, Rosie,

Betty Jo, John Paul, Marvin “Slick”, Maudie, Evelyn, Kervin “Chubb”, and Rickey preceded him in death.

LJ leaves to cherish his memories: his brother, LH (Glenda) Henderson of Pittsburg, Texas and sister, Jo Ann (Earnest) Spencer of Plano, Texas; sons: Billy (Wanda) Butler of Pittsburg, Texas; Donald (TiKishea) Butler of Pittsburg, Texas, and Charles Butler of Lancaster, Texas; daughters: Rolinda, “Big Head” Butler of Falmouth, Jamaica, and Alisa “Pookie” Butler of Pittsburg, Texas; 23 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, and 1 great, great grandchild; special children: Gwen Grant Stewart of Pittsburg, Texas and Tiffany Anderson of Katy, Texas, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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