Gene Allan Henderson was born to Wilbur and Alta Henderson on November 22, 1934, and grew up in Oakland, California. Gene enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country as an E4 Corporal during the Korean War. Upon his return, the love of his life, Glenda Vernon, was waiting for him and the two were married on Christmas Day in 1954 at The Church of the Wayfarer in Carmel, California.

Gene and Glenda settled in Hayward, California where Gene worked as a machinist for Laurence Orthopedic. Over the course of 10 years, Gene became father to three daughters and one son. During this time, he committed his life to the Lord and the family began attending Huntwood Baptist Church where he served in various capacities including church leadership and teaching.

In 1972, Gene moved his family to Pine Grove, California where he began his own business, G & H Manufacturing. In addition to providing excellent customer service to numerous businesses throughout the state, Gene also invented two mechanisms that were later patented for use in various prosthetic devices.  In 1978, Gene and Glenda were instrumental in starting Pioneer Baptist Church. As was his habit, Gene continued to partner with God and committed his many gifts and talents in support of this young church. As the church grew, he completed multiple terms as the Chairman of the Board of Elders and served as a teacher for the Adult Sunday School class. In addition to his church service, Gene also served as a mentor for various incarcerated young men at the Preston Youth Correctional Facility.

After many joyful years at Pioneer Baptist, and with a successful career under his belt, Gene sold his business in 2005 and retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas where he and Glenda became involved at Village Baptist Church. Before long, Gene was asked to teach the Adult Sunday School class which he did for many years. During these years, Gene also volunteered as a driver for the Bella Vista Courtesy Van to assist Bella Vista residents with their transportation needs and the Veteran's Administration Van which served the needs of veterans.

First and foremost, Gene was a follower of Christ who spent countless hours studying the Bible and devoting himself to prayer for the many needs that arose in his own life and those of his friends and family. He was a loving and devoted husband who exemplified the beauty of marital commitment. As the father of four, Gene showed his children how to live with deep integrity before God while holding fast to the joy of life. He knew how to carry compassion and discipline in a way that spoke love to his children. Gene was unapologetically proud of his family. He was the father that every child needs! Gene was also a wonderful friend and mentor to many during his life.

Gene Henderson peacefully entered his heavenly home, surrounded by his four children, on June 28 at the Circle of Life Center in Bentonville, Arkansas. Gene is survived by his wife, Glenda, their four children, eight grandchildren and seven great -grandchildren.

"Well done, good and faithful servant..."