Photo courtesy of Crofts-Crow Funeral Home - Blanco
Blanco, Texas
Jan 3, 1961 – Dec 2, 2023
Crystal Henderson, 62, of Blanco, TX, Passed Away on December 2, 2023
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Crystal Henderson, a cherished and influential member of the Blanco community, on December 2, 2023, at the age of 62. Born on January 3, 1961, in New Orleans, LA, to Ommer and Lynn Akers, Crystal was a guiding light in her family and community.
A proud alumna of Tarleton State University, Crystal earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Animal Science in 1983 and 1984, respectively. She made history as the first woman to be appointed as the Culberson County Extension Agent for Agriculture in Texas, pioneering the path for women in agricultural roles.
Crystal's passion for animals was unparalleled. She lovingly tended to her homestead in Blanco, which was home to 5 cats, 1 dog, and 28 chickens. Her commitment extended beyond her farm, as she actively worked with local shelters, assisting in relocations, transports, and temporary foster care.
She leaves behind her loving partner, Shawn Anderson; her devoted son, Tanner Wilbanks and his wife, Blakeley; her sisters, Jenny, Darlene, and Edi, along with her many cherished nieces and nephews. Each of them reflects a part of Crystal's enduring spirit. Her life was a testament to her strong will and kind heart, illustrated by her favorite Bible verses, Isaiah 54:10 and Psalms 23:1.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to her nurse and friend, Christian Sanchez, in Midland, TX, for the compassionate care provided during her journey and Luis Vences, who cared for in her final days.
A service to celebrate Crystal's life will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, 11:30AM at the First Baptist Church of Blanco, TX.
Crystal's life was a beacon of hope and strength. She will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Crystal Henderson kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to Highland Lakes Canine Rescue of Marble Falls, TX, to honor her profound love for animals and her commitment to their welfare. https://www.highlandlakescaninerescue.org/
Read MoreForever in my ❤! Love you always! Keep shining as God's angel my sweet friend!
Pamela Nabers
December 02, 2024 | Blanco, TX | Friend
Love you so much, Crystal! your beauty always shines so deep from Within always helping others! Fly high, sweet angel! Rest in peace! You were so very loved! My condolences to the family.
Pamela Nabers
June 09, 2024 | Friend
All our love and prayers go out to Crystal’s family at this difficult time. Even now she dances in the heavenly kingdom God has prepared for her.
Bill & Karen Warner
December 10, 2023 | Forest, VA | Family
So sorry to hear Crystal passed away. She was a beautiful person inside and out. Prayers for the family.
Sonya Hicks
December 09, 2023 | Schertz, TX | Friend
Darlene and family, I am so sorry to hear about Crystal. I only had the opportunity to meet her once, but from what I have heard she was an exceptional person. I will keep all of you in my prayers.
Rhonda Williams
December 07, 2023 | Maud, TX | Friend
Crystal and my mom, her Aunt Etoile, had a special relationship. When my mom would come home from visiting her and the family in Stephenville, she would glow talking about Crystal, (and yes I was jealous). Crystal was such an encouragement to her aunt. I’m thankful they had that close bond, I think it was a blessing to both of them. I am thankful for the day Crystal and I had lunch in Blanco many years ago - we talked for at least 3 hours. She was a special woman.
Jan Boyd
December 07, 2023 | Family
I remember Crystal being a cheerleader to all those that were around her no matter the event. Tanner keep playing that Martin Guitar your mom showed me. I know she will still be cheering you on from above.
Bari Mayberry
December 07, 2023 | San Antonio, TX | Friend
I'm so devastated to hear this. Crystal was such a wonderful person. I'm so sorry Tanner for your loss. RIP dear friend. The world has lost a bright light.
Gayla and Milton Grenwelge
December 06, 2023 | Edmond, OK | Friend
My heart aches for Crystal's family. I have many fond memories of Crystal, Jenny, Darlene, and Edi growing up together in Humbletown, Cisco. Loving prayers for her family, all. Such a loss to us, but such a win for Crystal. She is now healed and with the loving Savior.
Janet Kirklin
December 06, 2023 | Webster, TX | Friend
