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Edith Henderson Obituary

Edith was a retired software developer who also was the vice president of artistic advisory for the Santa Cruz County Symphony. Nicknamed Edy, she played violin with the San Jose Symphony Orchestra for many years.
Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Jul. 2, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Edith Henderson

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84 Entries

Kristy McMillen-Nelson

October 29, 2013

My thoughts and prayers go out to Edy's family. Marlene was a dear friend in high school and was blessed to have such loving and supportive parents. Edy was always there for her family members, holding hands with Joe, standing or sitting at so many sports events. She will be greatly missed I'm sure and I was lucky to have known her..

Anna Edmondson

September 24, 2013

I recently learned of this tragic event. My family sends its deepest condolences to the surviving family, in particular to the family of Marlene Henderson. Marlene, I met your mother, standing tall beside you, at a St. Paul's event. She seemed so exuberant and proud to be by your side. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

August 31, 2013

Dearest Family and Friends of Edy and Joe,
I send my condolences to you and gratitude for the lives of these extraordinary people. Edy was a shining light in the lives of the Santa Cruz County Symphony community. I will miss seeing her at concerts and events. She leaves us a great legacy of community engagement and love of the arts. I'm sorry I missed the memorial, due to family illness.
Valerie Bengal, violinist, Santa Cruz County Symphony

Ariel Hendricks

August 20, 2013

You will be missed, thank you for your great spirit and love you showered on so many, much love and support to Patty, Marlene and the boys.

Ariel and Shirley Hendricks

July 20, 2013

I am sorry for the familly and I am deeply sadden for my friend Marlene, I always admire the company of her mother beside her and being a strong support for Malene's endevours. They were a great couple to meet and full of life.

July 17, 2013

sending you love and prayers above
I will miss seeing your smiling face at
Seascape Sports Club

Fran Tobin

July 13, 2013

Your smile and warm caring being will be missed by the entire world - I luv u Edy

Deb Palmer

July 12, 2013

Edy and Joe were my friends and I loved them. My sincerest condolences to Patty, Sylvia, Marlene and the boys. What a great loss....

Barbara & Skip Tyrrell

July 10, 2013

Dear Edy, your sense of humor and overall goodness will never be forgotten. I just wish I'd gotten to know you better.

Gail Lowell

July 9, 2013

There are no words to express how truly shocking it is to hear of the tragic death of a vibrant, generous, witty person like Edy. As a co-worker, she was a role-model for patience and professionalism. My sincerest condolences to the family and her many friends.

July 8, 2013

I did not know Edy and her husband, but I was saddened when I read of their passing. My blessings and comfort to their family and friends. Diane Crawford

July 8, 2013

It was a blessing to have known Edy both on and off of the tennis courts. She was truly a wonderful person and is dearly missed.

Bob Cihos

Inderjit Mundra

July 7, 2013

Edy And Joe brought happiness to everyone they knew with their words and smiles. These gifted moments they left will be treasured and hopes for more will be missed dearly.
Wishing the best to all the family to have the strength to continue and share their wonderful ways.

Vicky Anderson

July 7, 2013

Edy was a colleague of mine when we both worked for SunMicosystems. I will always remember Edy for her fine intellect and her sense of humor. I was so saddened to hear of her untimely death. While it has been some years since I've seen Edy, when I heard of her death, memories of our time together at Sun immediately came to mind immediately. Edy was a lovely woman whom I enjoyed working with and respected. My sympathies go out her family and close friends.

Cindy Rubin

July 7, 2013

I will miss Edy's radiant smile, her warmth and welcoming way, and the fun she brought to so many occasions. Our community has lost a valued and selfless contributor.

Linda Johnson

July 7, 2013

My prayers for the family and friends of Edy and her husband. I was getting to know Edy through her participation in Dining for Women, where she spoke in glowing terms about the SC Symphony. I was fortunate then to see and speak with her at one of the symphony performances this past year. I could feel her dedication to the symphony, choosing a new conductor, and the beauty of the symphony sound. I will miss her joyful optimistic spirit, and way of being in the world. Many Blessings to all who feel the sorrow of her sudden departure. She will be missed by many.

Gina Muller

July 7, 2013

What a heart break and loss to all of us. Our love goes out to Marlene, Alonso, Joseph and Patty. We are here for you. Gina Muller and Bill Manich

July 7, 2013

God Bless You Edy. SLHS Classmate 1962.
Stephanie Fuerch.

Morgan Edwards

July 7, 2013

On behalf of your Classmates from San Leandro High School.

Michael Green

July 7, 2013

At the time of my last san leandro high school class reunion,when I met Edy for the first time in many years, she was the same kind, smiling, loving, and considerate person, I had remembered since junior high school, the s.l.junior symphony,and on the tennis court. She was the same beautiful Edy and the one of those from the past who most impressed my wife--so I know we are all right in remembering Edy. God bless beauty and good. Thank you Edy.

Marian Langdon

July 7, 2013

It's so very hard to know where to start. Just hours before this tragedy I was walking my dog, a friend, and her dog past the Henderson's. I first really got to know Edy when she and Patty walked with me in 2009 for the "Walk to End Alzheimer's". Since then, DFW, neighborhood get-togethers and the Symphony have all brought us closer. I purchased her wonderful Vegan cookbook for the son-in-law of neighbors who is vegan after sharing each carefully crafted page with Edy. Whenever we saw Joe walking Sherlock and Watson, we'd wave and say "hi" and be greeted by his warm smile. It was Edy whose enthusiasm about finding a new conductor convinced me that I needed to become a season ticket holder, and so we always chatted at the Mello concerts before and during intermission. The neighbors and I are holding Patty, Marlene, Alonzo and Joseph in our prayers as we ourselves try to get our heads around this unspeakable event. Edy and Joe, we miss you greatly. With love and sympathy.

Mary Jane Chambers

July 7, 2013

Edy was a friend whom I wanted to know better. Her quick smile and her friendliness made her unforgettable.
She will truly be missed.

July 7, 2013

July 7, 2013

I have loved Edy since we were 16, and I took her to Fishermans Wharf in San Francisco for her birthday. We spoke, briefly, at our 50th San Leandro High School reunion in October 2012. Edy's father, Homer Hamlin, was one of very few true mentors I have had in life. Patty, Edy and I did stuff together on a moment's notice throughout high school and after. The loss is overwhelming to all of us. If Patty reads this, I hope she will contact me at a time of her choosing. My e-mail is: [email protected]
God speed, Edy. We all love you.

Randy J. Young, LTC, US Army (Ret.)

Beth McCanlies

July 6, 2013

My deepest sympathies to Marlene and Patty on this sudden tragic loss. No words can convey the sorrow.

I met Edy in 1980, worked for her at Scientific Calculations and Applicon for most of the 1980's and stayed in touch with her after that. She was a wonderful manager, kind and thoughtful and insightful. She was a compassionate and generous person. She was a fun - and forgiving - basketball and tennis player. She participated in life.

When I think of Edy, I think of her quick smile and lively spirit. I know I still have not fully realized her passing. I am glad to have known her, and to have memories with her.

Lonnie Pearson

July 6, 2013

I am so sorry for this harsh, senseless and sad departure of Joe and Edy. They had such grace about them, kind hearts they offered to everyone, sweet smiles that expressed their genuine and endless love of life. No one can ever take away our fond memories of this lovely couple. My prayers will continue for their transition into their new journey. We must remember that Edy and Joe will always be with us, not in body but in spirit. Their family and friends will have their continued support and grace through their powerful spirit.
Marlene, Patty, Sylvia and all family members, with the love of family and friends surrounding you in support, we pray they can help carry you through your sadness and the difficult times ahead, whether it is with a hug, holding of hands or a sincere gesture in expression. May God be with you. (You can also seek support with NAMI.org)
My love to you, (Mark Pearson's wife)

Michele

July 6, 2013

Sending love and prayers to the family.

Teresa

July 6, 2013

The Henderson's were long time friends of my family. A wonderful couple that will be missed terribly. May you rest in peace.

Clyde & Sheila Vaughn

July 6, 2013

Edy will be missed by her many good friends in the Santa Cruz Symphony. She was just about to assume the role of President of the Association and had great dreams and hopes for her tenure.
When the Symphony League asked if she would host our Annual Meeting at her home she simply said "yes." She was gracious, generous and a very gentle woman. We miss her terribly!

July 6, 2013

WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS OUR FEELINGS OVER THE LOSS OF JOE AND EDY. IT IS ON THE 6TH OF JULY WHEN GISELLE CALLED TO TELL US WHAT HAPPENED. WE ENJOYED THEIR FRIENDSHIP WHEN WE WERE NEIGHBORS ON HASHVILLE DR SINCE 1968 IN SAN JOSE. WEVE BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO ENJOY THEIR FRIENDSHIP AFTER WE MOVED TO MARIPOSA (SIERRA NEV.MTNS) AND THEY MOVED TO APTOS. WE HAD SUCH A GOOD TIME TOGETHER WHEN THEY HONOREED US AS OUR GUESTS ON OUR 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY AT THE HUNGRY HUNTER RESTAURANT (THE YELLOW HOUSE-MILPITAS) ON DEC 29TH, 2001. hOW CAN YOU FORGET SUCH WONDERFUL FRIENDS. MARLENE THEY WERE THE BEST. BOB & MARGO

Marianne Butziger

July 6, 2013

Words can't express my sympathy at the loss of your Mom and Dad. I knew your Mom growing up in San Leandro and having sleep overs with your Aunt Patti. You have such a rich heritage....may it sustain you during this time.

Love from The Ballous

Giselle Ballou

July 6, 2013

My dearest Ede and Joe,
Growing up in San Jose The Hendersons were our neighbors.They are like family to us .We have been blessed to be able to have stayed in touch through the years sharing our lives along the way.
Your calm and gracious nature was always such pleasure to be around.We always have and always will hold you dear to hearts. Our condolences to the Henderson family.God's peace be with always.

Diane Montijo

July 5, 2013

You are in my thoughts and prayers.Such a great lady and best friend to my mom and family.

Gerry Gerringer

July 5, 2013

Edy will be remembered for her compassion, integrity and wonderful spirit.

Molly O'Keefe

July 5, 2013

I pray for the loss of Edith Henderson's life and her husband Joseph. Our community has suffered a great loss and we must pay respects for the good life's they both lived. Edy's wonderful unfulfilled aspiration as President of the Board of the Santa Cruz Symphony will be acknowledged by our community. My niece was to have played violin in the upcoming season. Words are not enough to express this tragedy.

Bobbie Spivey

July 5, 2013

Edy was always available for ideas input from tech-y questions about computers to the use of a past participle in a statement involving a series. She was bright and vivacious, practical as well as idealistic. She was greatly loved and will be greatly missed.

Dave C

July 5, 2013

God bless you and may you rest in peace.

Connie H.

July 5, 2013

I had the pleasure of working for Edy over 20 years ago. The human aspect of her supervisory style left a long-lasting impression. God bless her family and friends and bring us all comfort.

Krisanthy Desby

July 5, 2013

She was always at rehearsals and concerts, chatting with musicians and friends, always listening, smiling, and helping out. This is a terrible loss to her friends, community and the symphony. Condolences to her family. May she and her husband rest in peace.

Rama Khalsa

July 5, 2013

May she and the whole family find peace and comfort in the spiritual beings that they are.

Ruth Griswold

July 5, 2013

I am so sorry to hear about Edy. When I was in charge of the luminaria ceremony at Relay for Life a few years ago, she was so helpful in guiding me and giving me all of her contacts for people involved in the ceremony from the year before, and answering any questions I had. I was very happy to know her while I was in Santa Cruz, and to be on her Relay team for a couple of years. I am so sorry to her family.

Miyeko Jones

July 5, 2013

May she rest in peace.

Marian Concus Piccoloist

July 5, 2013

Edy's dedication to Santa Cruz County Symphony will be sorely missed. My condolences to her family on this very tragic occasion.

Jackie Maurer

July 4, 2013

I am still in shock and cry at the drop of a hat. I have had the honor and pleasure of knowing Edy for many years because of our passion for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. She was so gracious, sweet and smart. I loved seeing the closeness and love she shared with her sister Patty and she was so proud of her daughter Marlene. The world has lost a very special woman whom will be greatly missed.

Gabriele van Lingen

July 4, 2013

What a world...Edy was the sweetest person whom I loved dearly, but, because of distance and different life paths, we somehow lost contact. She was my best friend in high school and gave me a home when I needed it. She will be in my heart forever, and I greatly regret lost opportunities. Be well, Edy, wherever you are. It is sure to be someplace fine. My deepest condolences to the Henderson family.

July 4, 2013

I am so incredibly sorry to hear of the tragic news of Edy and Joe Henderson. The world has lost two wonderful people, and the Santa Cruz Symphony has lost a true friend and supporter. Thinking of their family during this extremely difficult time...
Laurie Camphouse
Principal Flute
Santa Cruz County Symphony

John Orzel

July 4, 2013

Deepest Sympathies to the family and those in mourning. I got to know Edy while also serving on the Santa Cruz County Symphony conductor search committee. I count her among my newest and best friends. She will be sorely missed.

Janet Perry

July 4, 2013

My deepest condolences to Edy's family. We will miss our wonderful tennis buddy who always had a ready smile and was so giving to everyone as well as the community. We will never forget her. I cannot acept yet that she is gone from my life.

July 4, 2013

Our deepest sympathies go out to the Henderson family, we could not have had better neighbors than Edy and Joe. A shocking and tragic loss, not just for our neighborhood but for the whole community.
Matthew and Laura Azzaro

Carmen

July 4, 2013

Our deepest Condolences to the family. We got to know Edy very well working with her at the Relay For Life. She helped my daughter in law and I with the survivor Chair committee and we couldn't have asked for a better person to work with. Edy was and always will be remembered by everyone at Relay.

Vicki Perkins

July 4, 2013

Edy was my manager at Scientific Calculations in the early '80s. She was a wonderful boss - talented, insightful, always kind and courteous. She was a pioneer at a time when there were very few women in management or in technology. She was a role model in gracefully managing her career and her commitment to her family. She was devoted to her children, and as a manager, she was ahead of her time in supporting a family friendly workplace. I often brought my baby to work, and Edy would be the first to hold him. Edy and Joe, you were great people, and you will be missed.

Tanya

July 4, 2013

I'm still in shock and will forever miss my tennis, DFW,Relay for Life carpool buddy Edy. Such a caring and and loving person who deserved the best in life.

Edy on the left at a recent Dining for Women event.

sally Bookman

July 4, 2013

My dear friend Edy, I miss you so much. You were a shining light to so many people. Hitting tennis balls over the net will never be quite the same without you beside me!

Susan Worland

July 4, 2013

So sorry to hear this very sad news. Edy will be very much missed by the management and musicians of the Santa Cruz County Symphony.

Doug Thorley, bass trombonist, SCCS.

July 4, 2013

Edy was such a lovely person. Her work with the Symphony is much appreciated and we will miss her.

Ann Reading-Koontz

July 3, 2013

Edy is my cousin. I always looked up to her as one of my very smart, loving and kind older cousins. I have been at a complete loss as to how to process this. She is so talented and loving, giving and kind. Our hearts are broken but she will never be forgotten. She was a excellent example of a human being and God be with her and care for her. My prayers are for the loss to all of us and her beautiful family. We will always love her and remember her with such positive and uplifting thoughts. God Bless her, and all of us.

Kristina Anderson

July 3, 2013

I did not know Edy well, but I enjoyed the positive, happy energy that she generated. She had a wonderful smile and loved to be around the Santa Cruz Symphony musicians. I know we will all hold her memory as we continue to play the symphonic music she loved.
I send my deepest sympathy to her family and friends and hope they will eventually find peace.

Jennifer Choate

July 3, 2013

I also knew Edy, and I am devastated by her tragedy.

July 3, 2013

"Where shall we find another?" - William S. Gilbert

It is impossible to measure the depth and breadth of Edy's generosity and contribution to the Santa Cruz County Symphony. Innumerable hours of personal effort, countless meetings and agreeing to be the next president of our board of directors speak to her unflagging efforts and energy. The word "commitment" can't begin to cover her efforts.

My deepest sympathy to her family and friends.

Norman Peck
Principal Percussionist
Personnel Manager
Santa Cruz County Symphony

Jamie Gray

July 3, 2013

My deep condolences to all family and friends. I had the honor of working for Edy back at Sun, and she was a wonderful person to work with and for - warm, smart and wise. She will be missed by many.

Lynn Onishi

July 3, 2013

Just got word and I'm in total shock and paralyzed right now!

I worked with Edy many years ago at Sun Micro and she was one of the most loving and caring people I've ever met. Sending loving thoughts and prayers to the family...may the loving memories carry you through.

July 3, 2013

On behalf of the staff (and former staff) of Freedom Elementary, we send our condolences. We knew Edy and Joe mostly through Patty who let us know how special they were and found a way to share them with us. Your sadness is shared by all of us.

Kati Dayner

July 3, 2013

I'm so sorry for your loss. Edy was so terrific, and so dedicated to our orchestra. She will be missed and remembered fondly.
My sincere condolences to all who knew Edy and Joe.

Bill Willsie

July 3, 2013

I've just learned of this very sad happening. Very difficult to assimilate. Condolences and love to the family and friends. My mother went to Occidental College with Edy's parents, Homer and Grace. Edy and I were in the same call at the Univ. of Redlands, and dated for almost two years. It's a major shock and incredible loss. Hope there is a service to celebrate their lives that I can attend. Love, Bill and Monica

July 3, 2013

Deepest condolences to the family on the loss of this couple, what a terrible tragedy.

Cheryl and Fred Poole

July 3, 2013

I carpooled with Edy and Darlene for several years. I remember one year when we discussed the ballot measures during the commute. We would give them a thumbs up or a thumbs down. It was the best way to discuss and think about the issues. Edy was a creative and caring person. She was a role model and good friend. Our condolences to Patty, Marlene and the kids.

Anna Marie Fiala

July 3, 2013

Such an inviting couple, loving parents, who contributed light to the world in so many ways. Love, hugs and hope for your family!

Roger & Shea Pase

July 2, 2013

We will remember and miss you dearly, Joe and Edy. Thank you for gracing our lives.

Lee Ivy

July 2, 2013

I first met Edy back in 1980 when she hired me at a small software company in Santa Cruz. She was a great leader, role model, and friend, and Joe was a genuinely nice guy. I have many fond memories of both. My condolences to Patty, Marlene, and everyone else who was close to Edy and Joe.

Nora Stone

July 2, 2013

Edymay: You were my best boss, mentor, ally and friend. You taught by good example. You supported me when I had trouble with my son. You supported a co-worker when she lost her mother. You did so much for so many. You and Joe deserved better than this. God speed you to your Lord. RIP

linda cowles

July 2, 2013

My thoughts are with all of you who are mourning the tragic loss of Edy and Joe... they were wonderful, loving people, and the earth is a poorer place without them... Edy, my dear, God-speed...

vanessa bogenhom

July 2, 2013

so very sad i will miss her horribly.

Sheila Perez

July 2, 2013

Edy your gentle and loving spirit will be missed in this harsh world. May God be merciful on all of those let behind and especially to Marlene and all the family. With much love your cousin,

Billie Hopkins-Furuichi

July 2, 2013

Our prayers go up for Joe and Edy and their entire family. Edy has been like a sister for 30 years, and Joe like a steady rock for their grand children. My heart is filled with grief and sadness for them and Marlene and Patty. Peace be with Edy and Joe. Healing and comfort for those left without their loving guidance.

Dick & Bev Sleeper

July 2, 2013

We are going to miss Edy, She and I were "water girls" together, (taking care of well issues as we shared the well. I just cant emagine her sweet face as a neighbor, and sweet big joe walking his dog from the mailbox waving as we would go by. We are praying for the entire family during this hard time. May you all feel the prayers going out to your from so many friends and neighbors.

Watonka & David Addison

July 2, 2013

Deepest sympathies and condolences from our family to yours. We are so saddened by this tragic loss. May the enduring love of family and friends help to bring some comfort.

Noel Brainard Lowery

July 2, 2013

I am so sad for your loss. I am praying for you and your family during this difficult time. My best memory of you Mom was your Birthday Party that you had at the Beach Boardwalk where it rained and rained and the only ride that was open was the Giant Dipper and we rode it all day. Then we went to your aunts house for cake! God Bless. Love, Noel

Pete Lucero

July 2, 2013

We are sending our love...

Nancy La Rocque

July 2, 2013

Marlene and Patty, I am so very sorry about Edy and Joe. I will miss them so much.
With love,
Cousin Nancy

Mark and Trish Schwenne

July 2, 2013

Dear family and close friends,
With shock and deep sadness we pray you accept our condolences for Edy. She was a person of character and kindness we could all learn from. As close neighbors and friends, please know she and Joe will be greatly missed. We are praying for all concerned at this time.

Margaret Parraz

July 2, 2013

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Ann Silva

July 2, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Lori & Z Amato

July 2, 2013

There are no words. Our hearts go out to Joe & Edy's family. You are in our hearts and prayers.

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