Deborah Canyada Henderson

Mrs. Deborah Canyada Henderson was born August 4, 1951 in Oconee County, South Carolina. She was the daughter of the late Stonewall Smith and Evelyn Gilmore Smith. She married Calvin Henderson, Sr. February 3, 1968. Unto this union was born 3 children. On Sunday May 12, 2013 she passed away at her home. Deborah (Kay) received her formal education in South Carolina Public School “Blue Ridge High” Class of 1969. Deborah was a home maker and enjoyed taking care of her family. Deborah also known as ‘Kay’ loved her family dearly and those that knew Deborah knew that she had a heart of pure gold and a bright welcoming smile for all that she met. She was an active member of New Direction Christian Center. She was the President of the Usher Board, and she was over the Caring and Sharing Outreach Ministry. She had her hands tied in many things at New Direction, whenever they called on her and if she was able she was there. She loved her church family dearly. Deborah was definitely “more than a conqueror!” She graciously fought every obstacle that she was confronted with to the very end. After a courageous battle against cancer, God decided it was time for His special butterfly to come on home. As a virtuous woman, she always found time to be the best wife any man could pray for, a loving mother/nana, great daughter, daughter-in-law, a loving sister and friend, you could always count on her. She was not only a mother to her own children, but a loving mother to so many others. You can say that she was the “bridge” in keeping her family together. She will always be remembered for her giving spirit, her ability to encourage and inspire others, and an infectious smile. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Margret S. Parks, Morris Smith, Stonewall Smith, Jr., Irma S. Dancy, Bradley Smith, and Walter Smith. Deborah will never be forgotten because she leaves to cherish her memories her husband of 45 years, Calvin Henderson Sr. of Charlotte, NC, two sons: Calvin Henderson Jr. and Derrick Henderson (Sharon) both of Charlotte, NC, one daughter: Teressa Henderson Gregory of Charlotte, NC, 5 Grandchildren: Quantavia Canyada Henderson of Seneca, SC, Sha’Derrickah Shanice Henderson, Talaycia LaShay Cooper, Derrick Henderson Jr., and Haley Cierra Gregory all of Charlotte NC, two sisters: Lorean Mayes of Seneca, SC and Phyllis Holland of Spartanburg, SC, one brother Stephen Smith of Seneca, SC, aunt, Julia Clanton of Atlantic City, NJ, one step-daughter Michelle Wideman Clemons of Seneca, SC. In-laws that LOVED her dearly. She also leaves a special friend, Gwen Stokes of Charlotte, NC.

Deborah Canyada Henderson

August 4, 1951 - May 12, 2013