Rebecca L. Henderson

September 4, 1951 ~ October 2, 2007
Resided in:
Arden, NC
Rebecca Lea Henderson, 56, of 14 Chipping Green Drive, Arden, NC, died Tuesday, October 2, 2007. Mrs. Henderson was a native of Denton, TX and was a daughter of the late Walter Morrell and Jane Clark Lea. She was a former resident of North Wilkesboro, NC, Charlotte, NC, and Knoxville, TN.
Mrs. Henderson served as a volunteer and as a member of the Board of Directors of Three Streams Family Health Center and of WNC Families CAN. She was a member of the Church of the Resurrection Charismatic Episcopal Church in Asheville.
Surviving are her husband, The Rev. Fr. Nicholas R. Henderson; one son, Nicholas R. Henderson IV; one sister, Lisa McGee of Denver, CO, and one brother, Clark Lea of Midland, TX.
A memorial service is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Saturday in the Patton Avenue chapel of Groce Funeral Home, Asheville, NC, with the Venerable William G. McLoughlin officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials maybe made to the building fund of the Church of the Resurrection, 11 Vail Court, Asheville, NC 28806, or to Three Streams Family Health Center, 2 Sulphur Springs Road, Asheville, NC 28806.
Rebecca will always means smiles and laughter to me. She was a generous, loving soul. I wish we could have spent many more hours together. I suppose that will just have to wait!
Instigator’ is the word that comes to mind when remembering cousin Rebecca. Together with sister Lisa, they had us all wondering what was next when the family got together. And Clark – growing from innocent target to willing accomplice (come ON – admit it!). They were quite a team and we all derived great joy from their pure sense of fun and adventure – from youth to adulthood. It is no surprise that Rebecca translated this God-given talent to instigating action on behalf of those who were too tired or sad or overwhelmed to advocate for themselves. Although she left her home state of Texas many years ago, Rebecca’s heart remained ‘boldest and grandest.’
We’ve all experienced the ‘Rebecca smile’ – the dazzling rush that wordlessly communicates ‘in this moment, there is only you and me, and I think you are wonderful and special and I love you!’
Nick, I am so deeply saddened for you and Nicholas! The loss of such a one as Rebecca is great. And way too soon! I pray that your memories of the joyous times remain fresh and the pain of her absence soon dulls. She is at peace.
We have been so blessed to be in the loop of your loving AND fun family. You all added in making the wedding for Tim and Skyler a beautiful affair for all of us. What a blessed time that was.
Rebecca did so many wonderful things in her short life. You know our prayers continue for you and for Nicholas. Love, Tom & Shirley
Rebecca was a special person to all who knew her and will be missed by the community. She never had a bad word to say about anyone and was quite witty. Even when the going got tough, she did not buckle. She loved her family and they meant more to her than they will ever know. God has picked a special flower from the garden of Earth just to be with him. We will miss her and will never forget her smiling face.
Ruth Cosgrove
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. I have known Rebecca only for a short time but I will always remember her beautiful smile, her loving personality, and the way she cared and showed concern for everyone. You could see and feel the Lords love through Rebecca. She will be missed but never forgotten. Bless you.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this time. May GOD grant you peace and HIS grace during your loss. We love you all.
Rebecca was a very caring and encouraging person. She had a beautiful smile and a wining manner that drew her to everyone. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Fun, kind, loving, caring, faithful. Devoted mother, steadfast advocate, true friend and wonderful person.
As a Supportive Connections presence in WNC Families CAN meetings, Rebecca created a pillar of strength for others in need. In our last board meeting, her primary concern was that we devote our remaining resources to help other families who are in need of mental health services for their children.
This was our Rebecca.
How can I say how much I, and all of Rebecca’s girlfriends, will miss her?
Please accept my deepest sympathy.
So many of us will experience the loss of Rebecca in our lives. I remember her warmth, smile and optimism. She was a friend.
Nick and Nicholas my heart aches for your loss.
My Thougts are with bot Nick and Nicholas.
I will miss seeing Rebecca at WNC Families CAN meetings.
Rebecca’s beautiful heart has touched my heart so deeply. I will always remember her devotion and commitment to being there for so many.She truly was committed to her friends and family. She was quite an amazing woman, and I am will miss her dearly. She has touched my life is very special ways beyond what words could ever say.
Nick and Nicholas, please know that we are there for you, and that our heart and love goes out to you.
Nick,
You and Nick will be in our prayers!! Rebecca will be missed. A very vibrant person with a huge heart!!
Love,
Sara
Nick and Nicholas please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We will all miss her.
Dear Fr. Nick,
Doris and I are so,so sorry. Rebecca was such a wonderful person and dearly loved by all here who were fortunate enough to know you and her. Our prayers are needless to say with you and for her.
Much love, my brother in Christ.
Bill
I will remember Rebecca as a fun, loving gratious woman who’s passion for life will continue to warmly bring joy to those she has loved.
Nick and Nicholas – I have no words of comfort – only love for the two of you. Know we will be here for you when ever you need us.
Father Nick & Nicholas,
Our hearts are saddened and broken as we mourn the loss of a beautiful and loving lady. I feel priveleged to have spent Tuesday afternoon with Rebecca and to see such joy on her face. We are lifting you up in prayer.
Love,
Marshall and Geri Spangler
Fr. Nick and Nicholas,
My love and prayers are with you both. Words can not express how truly wonderful Rebecca was and how much she meant to all of us at Three Streams. I will miss my ‘Audrey’ .
Fr. Nick and Nicholas, know that the families of St. Clements, St. Timothys, and St. Michaels are so saddened by Rebeccas passing. She was so much fun and such a lovely, loving person. She will be missed by all who knew her. Our prayers are with you and your fmily. God bless you and be with you always.
Penny and I were shocked and saddened to hear about Rebecca’s untimely passing. She was a wonderful neighbor and friend who always had a warm smile and I know that she will be greatly missed by everyone on Chipping Green. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Father Nicholas, Nick and Lisa and Clark:
How Rebecca will be missed – she was as loving as her parents. I always thought of her as a daughter that I never had. God be with you all.
With love,
Nancy Millichamp
2210 Robinwood Ln.
Denton, Tx 76209
REBECCA WAS SUCH A GRACIOUS AND LOVING LADY. I WILL MISS HER GREATLY. GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS, NICK AND NICHOLAS. OUR LOVE TO BOTH OF YOU. JOHN AND GOLDEN STROHMEIER
Dearest Fr. Nick and Nicholas,
There really are no words which convey the depth of our sympathy for each of you. Rebecca lived truly as a ‘woman of God’, and now she’s reaping her reward! Praise Him!
Love and Prayers always……….
Nick,
Words cannot express how saddened we are to hear of Rebecca’s passing. Our lives were certainly made richer by knowing her.
Love, Alice and John
Nick,
Rebecca was such a lovely person, and she will be missed by so many people.
Although words are so feeble at difficult times like this, we know that HE is able to keep you in perfect peace. ‘And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)
Our hearts and prayers are with you at this time of sudden loss and pain.
With Love,
Fr. Nick,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Rebecca’s passing. My deepest condolences to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I met Rebecca through WNC Families Can at least seven years ago. She was always a warm, loving, supportive presence. Our sons played together at the meetings. Last month, I hugged her and told her bye unbeknowingly for the last time. I will miss her deeply!!
Give this our Daily Bread for Rebecca L. Henderson for her death. Be with the Lord within you Rebecca. I could not believe that she died on us. But she will leave her soul within us, forever. We loved her for the past years and months and weeks and past days. She left her beloved son, husband, sister, and brother. We are all sorry for what happened to ya’ll; Nicholas R. Henderson[Husband]; Nick R. Henderson[Son]; Lisa McGee[Sister]; and Clark Lea[Brother]. We [Family Can] are all sorry for what happened. For The Names Of ”The Father And The Son And The Holy Spirit…..Amen”. God Be Within You Rebecca!!!
Damien Alain Chatelain
Nick,
Larry and I were so saddened to learn of Rebecca’s death.
Know that we keep you in our prayers and thoughts through this difficult time.
Fr. Nick,
I am so sorry! I can not imagine how you must feel. I didn’t know Rebecca well but the few times we interacted, she was such a delightful and caring person. I remember when we visited COTR she was so welcoming and spent significant time talking with my grandson Zachary. I know that Sara thought highly of Rebecca. I know that her contributions to COTR, Three Streams and the many people with whom she had contact will be sorely missed. She has left a very positive legacy of caring and loving–especially those who were ‘troubled’.
We both know that she is ‘well indeed’ and having a ‘grand party’ as she celebrates her transformed life with Jesus!! She will be missed tremendously but we look forward to meeting her ‘over Yonder’.
If I may be of any assistance, please let me know.
You are in my fervent prayers.
Peace, love, & joy,
Fr. Dave
Rebecca was a dear sister-in-law, and a special friend. I will treasure the happy memories I have of sitting up with her into the wee hours talking, laughing, sometimes crying. May God hold her in the palm of his hand until we can all be reunited.
Dear Nick and Nicholas,
Please accept my sincere sympathy. Although I have not been in contact with you all for many years, I remember you fondly and often. I remember Rebecca as warm, loving, with a wonderful sense of humor. She was full of grace and kindness. By her presence in your lives you have been enriched by that grace and kindness. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Elizabeth Thurbee
Dear Fr. Nick and Nichols,
I was so saddened to hear of your loss.
I was so blessed and inspired to have had the opportunity to spend some precious time with Rebecca at the Clergy Wives’ Retreat.
You are in my prayers.
Dear Nick and Nick jr., our love and prayers are with you both. Rebecca was such a special, loving and really fun person to be with. Still remember the days of St. Mary Magdellan women’s prayer guild and our retreats together. I will remember her upbeat personality and her laughter!. What a joy to be with her. Thank you for sharing your lives (and literally your home with us). Please feel free to contact us. It’s been too long and we miss you! In Christ, Debbie. John and family.
Dearest Nick,
I was deeply shocked and saddened to learn of Rebecca’s death. I have spent the last two days having such amazing memories of life with you and Rebecca. The spirit, love and laughter you both shared with us at St. Paul’s will never be forgotten.
I regret that I will not be able to make the trip to Arden for Rebecca’s memorial service. You will be in my heart and in my mind as you journey on. I love you, Nick.
Ann Fortuna
Mr. Henderson and Nicholas,You are in my thoughts and prayers. Iwill certainly miss Mrs. Henderson.Iam depply sorry.
All my love, Mary
Dear Nick and Nicholas, Clark, Lesa and Families,
How very shocked and saddened we are to hear about Rebecca’s passing. Although ‘to live is Christ and to die is gain’, I know that you and I still want her here with us. Rebecca loves you, and because she shared her life and love with the rest of her family, we love you, too. Altough we will be unable to join you in Arden for the funeral, know that we are praying for you, now and for time to come.
Love and Hugs,
in the Name of Jesus,
Cousins Melanie and Lea
Rebecca loved her family, church and friends–and Jazz! She had that certain panache which drew people to her. Her trademark jewelry always matched and her kind words touched hearts. Her girlfriends will especially miss her.
Dear Rebecca’s Family,
Ron and I grieve with you. Through our tears of sorrow, we who are left behind, rejoice for Rebecca as Jesus has drawn her into His arms of love.
Everyone who knew her was blessed. She had a way of making each one of us feel special. She lavished each of us with love and compassion, and oh how we laughed!
Her commitment to those things she deemed important was unfailing, a shining example to us all.
Lea family, she loved you all so very much. She was very proud of each one of you.
Nicholas, your mother loved you with her whole heart and worked and fought to make sure you received everything you needed to grow into a fine young man. Be proud to be her son.
Dear Fr. Nick, it was wonderful to spend time with you and Rebecca, basking in the warmth
of your loving relationship. It was clear that Rebecca loved you and that she felt loved and protected by you. That is all we women need to feel blessed in marriage.
You know we are here and you need only to ask and we will be there.
God Bless You All
Love,
Ron and Wanda
Mrs. Henderson was a very special lady. She will be missed by all that knew her. We at Merry Maids will miss her smile and kindness that she always gave to us each and every week. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time, knowing His love is your comfort thru this time of loss.
Nick,
I knew Rebecca over 20 years ago. She served as a youth leader and Sunday School teacher to me, and was kind enough to host my bridesmaid luncheon when I got married. She had an infectious spirit that lit up a room. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love,
Beth Crutchfield Williams
I knew Rebecca for many years at WNC Families Can. She had the most sparkling eyes and smile, even when things were tough. I will miss you and your sweet spirit Rebecca. God has truely received an Angel.
Dear Nick:
I am sorry to hear about Rebecca. You are a great man and deserve the best of the best. God knowing this about you has Rebecca’s soul under his wing waiting for you when he calls you to be with her.
With all of my love and respect to you.
Joel Crump
817-793-0448
5312 Wentworth Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76132
Dear Fr. Nick,
Please know that you and Nicholas are in my prayers. My heart aches for you. I know that I cannot say or do anything to ease your pain, but I can pray to the Father to surround you with His comforting love with confidence that He will answer my prayer.
Love and Prayers, Carole
Dear Nick,
We were devastated to hear of Rebecca’s death. Our years together at St. Paul’s, Wilkesboro, were so wonderful because of our friendship with you and Rebecca. We remember her infectious smile and laugh, her sweet sweet spirit, and her very presence. We were blessed to know her and have you and her both in our lives. Please know that we are thinking of you.
Much love,
Jane
My wife, Glenna and our extended family extend our condolences and prayers to all of the family. Wish we could have been there in person.
Will
What a joy Rebecca has been to her family. Barry and I will remember forever the wonderful time we had with Rebecca at the wedding of Timothy and Skylar in Denver. Our love, thoughts, and prayers with Nick, Nicholas, Lisa, and Clark. We love you all!