Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John Hensley Obituary
He was born June 16, 1912 in Sullivan County, Mo., ordained to the ministry at the age of 18, and graduated from William Jewell College in 1935. He earned both a Master of Theology and Doctor of Theology degree from Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Mo., where he also served as adjunct professor in Religious Education and Counseling. He served pastorates in Missouri and Tennessee before moving to Jackson, Miss. in 1958 to become Director of Missions for the Hinds County Baptist Association. He became the first Executive Director of the Christian Action Commission, Mississippi Baptist Convention, in 1966 and retired in that role in 1982. Named Executive Director Emeritus, he later became a consultant in Family Ministry Programs for the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board and took a second retirement in 1990.
Dr. Hensley was the author of fourteen books ranging from biography to a wide variety of topics related to Christian family ministry. His first book, The Pastor as Educational Director, became a standard text in many colleges and seminaries. He received the Distinguished Service Award from the Christian Life Commission, Southern Baptist Convention, in 1975 for leadership in social ethics, and was presented the Brooks Hays Christian Citizenship award in 1992. He served for ten years as the recording secretary of the Mississippi Baptist Convention and eight years on the board of the Radio and Television Commission, Southern Baptist Convention.
Survivors include his wife, Margaret Sipes Hensley of Clinton, Miss., and three sons: Gary Hensley, Birmingham, Ala.; Clark Hensley, Clinton; Dana Hensley, Brentwood, Tenn. Survivors also include his brother L.D. Hensley, sister Mrs. Emery Harris, three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Memorials may be made to Northside Baptist Church, 1475 E Northside Dr., Clinton, Mississippi.
The family guest book may be signed at www.lakewoodfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Hensley
Hal Lee
January 16, 2007
I remember Dr. Clark Hensley from a visit he made in the late 50s to the church where I was pastor. We were have a World Missions Conference in Jackson County. I was a young pastor at Vancleave Baptist Church and Dr. Hensley represented state missions to our congregation. Grateful for the memory of this gracious and gifted Christian minister, I attended the memorial service at Northminister today.
Clydell Morgan
January 15, 2007
I think the fondest memory I have of Clark are our meetings on our adjoining front lawns and speaking of the topic of the day. The peace he smiled and the grace and comfort he transcended are embedded in my presence. Thank you, Clark, I pray your earthly peace is enhanced by a heavenly reward. Margaret my prayers are with you.
Jann & George Puckett
January 15, 2007
Clark and Margaret had a great impact on the lives of many Northminster members over the years they were active in this congregation. Clark never missed an opportunity to share kind greetings and show appreciation to all who visited him in recent years in his 'home'. He will be greatly missed and was greatly loved by many.
J. Courtney Selvy
January 15, 2007
I will always be grateful for the profound impact Dr. J. Clark Hensley had upon my life especially during those years I was part of the "share group". His counsel, advice and friendship were genuine and timeless. He was to me a grand gentlman of God.
Dell Mayfield
January 15, 2007
Clark Hensley made a great contribution to Baptist life. He was loved and respected by many, including me...former neighbor and friend on Concord Drive.
Sincere comfort and and direction for his family.
Dell Mayfield (Mrs. Charles)
James and Chris Buie
January 15, 2007
Dr.Hensley was my friend,my encourager, and my counselor.
Bill Hardy
January 15, 2007
Our prayers are united for the family and with appreciation for the friendship of Clark and for the many contributions he made.Bill and Barbara
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in John Hensley's name
Memorial Events
for John Hensley
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John Hensley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
