SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Faye L. Henderson, aged 100, passed away on February 9, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas.
Faye was born in Clinton, Ill. to Grace and Earl Wantland. She graduated from high school in Clinton and then attended nursing school. She was a talented musician, finishing 1st in the state of Illinois, with an original flute solo. She also had a beautiful voice and sang in several choirs.
Faye was married to Charles (Chuck) L. Henderson on January 26, 1945, when he returned from WWII. They were happily married until his death in 2000. Before his death, Chuck said that he wished that they had 50 more years.
Faye and Chuck enjoyed traveling together and visited every state in the U.S. They were also avid bridge players, and Faye still played well at 98. They enjoyed living in California for some 20 years, as well as Peoria and Morton, Ill., and were active socially.
Faye and Chuck had one daughter, Dr. Karen Henderson. Faye was actively involved in Karen’s life through her participation in the PTA, the mother-children’s choir, and Sigma Kappa sorority. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and cherished her family.
Faye was an extrovert, who loved people and “a lot of laughs.” She had many friends wherever she went and was active socially. She was a surrogate mother to many women. She was loving and caring and strong and courageous.
She made significant contributions to her communities through her volunteerism. She belonged to and worked in the Proctor Hospital Auxiliary League in Peoria for more than 30 years.
Faye is survived by her daughter, Dr. Karen Henderson, grandsons, Christopher Dixon (Alexis), Matthew Dixon (Amy), and great-granddaughter, Madison Dixon. She will be dearly missed by all.
A memorial in Bloomington will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your favorite charity.
