Philip Henderson

1944 - 2025

Philip Thomas Henderson, age 80, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at his residence in McDonough, Georgia, following a prolonged illness.

Philip was born on September 11, 1944, in Mobile, Alabama, to Walter and Charline Roye Henderson. He was a proud graduate of Algoma High School and went on to earn both his bachelor's and master's degrees in education from Mississippi State University. He dedicated over 30 years of his life to teaching at the junior and high schools in Stockbridge, Georgia. His impact as an educator was profound-many of his former students would often thank him for the lasting impression he made on their lives. He was actively involved in numerous extracurricular activities and clubs, and was named Teacher of the Year at Stockbridge Junior High School. He was also a member of Iota Lambda Sigma fraternity.

Philip's love for teaching began early. As a child, he eagerly shared his daily elementary school lessons with his younger sister, Barbara. Both he and Barbara were active members of the 4H Club and frequently earned state and national awards for their presentations and demonstrations.

At just nine years old, Philip received his first horse from his uncles, Henry and Jack Roye. That gift ignited a lifelong passion for horses. As an adult, he became an accomplished amateur Racking Horse trainer and rider, earning numerous accolades across the southern United States. He played a pivotal role in guiding his daughter, Elizabeth, to become the 1988 Racking Horse World Champion Equitation Rider. Philip was honored many times by the Georgia Racking Horse Association for his achievements and contributions to the sport.

In retirement, Philip and his beloved wife, Bessie, traveled extensively throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and internationally to China, South Africa, Japan, and Morocco-cherishing each adventure together.

Philip was a long-standing member of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Pontotoc, Mississippi.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Bessie Toole Henderson; his daughter, Dr. Elizabeth Henderson Taylor; his sister, Barbara Gail Henderson Walker; three devoted caregivers, Catherine Stewart, Pam McEady, and Caroline Goggins; as well as numerous cousins and extended family throughout the South. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, with Reverend David Hamilton officiating. Browning Funeral Home is honored to assist the Henderson family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made in Philip's name to the Palmer Home for Children, Lake Cormorant, MS (https://palmerhome.org/donate/), an organization he faithfully supported throughout his life.