Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
SYLVIA HENDERSON Obituary
Sylvia Jennings Henderson, 69, of Charlottesville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 21, 2012 in a local hospital after battling cancer. She is survived by her husband, Glenwood C. Henderson; her son, David C. Henderson and his wife Alena; her brother, William W. Jennings, Jr. and his wife Sandra Sue; and three grandchildren Justin, Andrew and Alexander Henderson. She was born November 8, 1942 in Norfolk, VA. She was the daughter of the late William Wesley and Mary Edna Ingram Jennings. Raised in South Boston, VA, she graduated from Halifax County High School in 1961. After receiving a degree from Longwood College in 1964, she married and took her first teaching position in Danville. She received her Masters in school administration at the University of Virginia in 1974. In 1976, she came to Charlottesville with her family and began a 32 year career with Albemarle County Schools. During her tenure, she served as principal of Woodbrook Elementary, Agnor-Hurt Elementary and Meriwether Lewis Elementary schools. Sylvia retired in 2008 to enjoy some travel, her grandchildren and one of her other loves - playing bridge. She continued serving children through her various roles with the Virginia Elementary Principals Association including a recent term as state president. She promoted educational causes at the state and national level and locally with pre-school projects. She also was involved as a mentor in teacher and administrator training at the University of Virginia. A memorial service will be conducted 11 a.m. Friday, January 27, 2012 at the Teague Chapel with Reverend Al Horton officiating. Interment will be private. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 26, 2012 at the Teague Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the First United Methodist Preschool Scholarship Fund, 101 E. Jefferson St. Charlottesville, VA 22902 or www.cvillefirstunitedmethodist.org. Friends may sign the guest register at teaguefuneralhome.com Sign the guest book at www.GoDanRiver.com
Memories and Condolences
for SYLVIA HENDERSON
Bettye Sclater
January 7, 2013
I am sorry to read of Sylvia's passing. I had David in my home day care in Western Henrico in the early 70's and decided to look him up online tonight. I remember Sylvia as a wonderful mother. My thoughts are with you all.
Courtney Jagger
February 3, 2012
I'm 36 now but had Mrs. Henderson as my principal at the original Meriwether Lewis. She was an amazing woman and I will always remember her. The world would be a better place if there were more people like Mrs. Henderson. My love and prayers go out to all who loved her.
Patricia Millman
January 28, 2012
Dear Glenn,
It has been more than 25 years since I spent a year in your downstairs guest room while writing my dissertation for the Curry School. I have never forgotten your generous hospitality. Surprisingly, i was asked to take over two student teachers that Sylvia was supervising before her surgery. Life has its funny twists. Glenn, I am so sorry for your loss.
Carole Osvalds
January 27, 2012
Dear Glen,
Your and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sylvia was a true role model; I learned so much from her. I will never forget her and the influence she had on me and others.
January 26, 2012
She made me a better mother. I took Sylvia's Parenting Class. She changed my life. She was a wonderful woman.
Burnette Curry
January 26, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Sylvia's family.
Shane Wolfe
January 26, 2012
Sylvia,
First, thanks for being such a wonderful mentor to so many on the VAESP Board. Your legislative support for schools will never be forgotten. I remember our last time together as we interviewed NDP Candidates. You held my hand through this process and taught me so much. We will certainly miss your historical perspective...but will never forget you and all that you have done for the children, teachers and principals in FCPS! Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Marilyn Harper
January 26, 2012
My sympathy to Glenn and his and Sylvia's family.
I was part of Sylvia's staff, in Albemarle County, for four years. She came early, stayed late and ran a tight ship.
She remembered every child who came through her school and was invested in their personal growth as well as their educational achievement. A gifted woman and an interesting one. I am grateful for my time with her and the mentoring she extended to me.
Stan Boren
January 25, 2012
Glen, I was honored to serve on the VAESP Board with Sylvia for many years. She was a valued colleague to us all. I cherish my memories of Sylvia as we attended many state and national conventions together along with Carolyn Coleman, Janice Marston, Tom Hannish, and Troy Rexrode. Her passing is a loss to us all. You and your family are in my prayers. Stan Boren, (Retired Principal from Fairfax County) -Sevierville, TN
January 25, 2012
Glen, Sylvia was my suite mate in college. I am sorry for your loss. We had good times in school, and I will never forget her beautiful hair and friendly ways. God be with you and your family, and may her memory help you through this time.
Shirley Welsh Leesburg, VA
Dewey Cornell
January 25, 2012
Sylvia was a powerful leader and school principal who made a difference in the lives of innumerable children. She had a rare combination of vision, personal strength, and kindness that made her a great educator. We were fortunate to have her as principal to our 3 children and to know her as a friend and bridge partner for so many years. Nancy and I will miss her friendship, wisdom, and warmth.
Sam Kaplan
January 25, 2012
Glen, I used to really look forward to our bridge nights, and it was always special when you and Sylvia were hosting. I will always have warm thoughts of you and Sylvia. Warm thoughts.
Connie Wenger
January 24, 2012
Sylvia was a wonderful resource to me as a parent and friend. I always admired her drive to make sure each child got what they needed to succeed. She will be missed.
Regina Kirk
January 24, 2012
Glen, David and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew and valued Sylvia's friendship and mentoring while working with her in Albemarle County. The world of education benefitted from her involvement and will be sorely missed by all who knew her.
January 24, 2012
I was saddened to learn today of Mrs. Henderson's passing. She was the principal at Woodbrook Elementary when I attended there back in the 70's. My thoughts and prayer's go out to the Henderson family.
Myrna Graham
January 24, 2012
Glen, I was so sorry and shocked to hear of Sylvia's passing. I had just heard in Oct. that she had brain cancer. I have had ovarian cancer for seven years. I take life on day at a time.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your son and his family.
Love,
Myrna
January 24, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Glen and David..I was fortunate to work with Sylvia in Albemarle.
Sincerelh,Gaynelle & Oliver Pamlin (Richmond)
Greg Hill
January 24, 2012
Your family is in my prayers. I am privileged to have worked with Sylvia through the VAESP and I was able to see immediately why so many held her in such high esteem, as did I.
Linda Perriello
January 24, 2012
Sylvia Henderson was a born teacher and grew into an educational leader who fought for her teachers, her students and for the profession she loved. She dedicated her life to being an educator and I know that there are many in Albemarle County and beyond who will feel deeply the loss. OUr hearts go out to Glen and David who stood by her through it all.
January 24, 2012
Dear Glen and Family,
We, here at Stony Point Elementary, send our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Sylvia will be remembered as an extraordinary educator and an advocate for children of all ages.
Sincerely,
Stony Point Elementary
January 24, 2012
I will always remember what a neat and tidy "ship" Mrs. Henderson ran while our 2 girls were attending Meriwether Lewis Elementary School. She was always well respected by teacher, parents and most importantly, the students. Our thoughts are with the entire Henderson family.
Trish & Wyatt Owens
Luke & Anita Moseley
January 23, 2012
We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the Henderson family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
January 23, 2012
Dear Glen, I was so sorry to hear about Sylvia and can only dimly imagine your grief at this time. I vividly remember, however, our days as best friends when we were growing up. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. With fond memories, Wyley in Toronto
Katherine Tillar-Hughes
January 23, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Henderson family. I was truly sorry to hear of Sylvia's passing, she was a mentor and friend who will be greatly missed.
Dennis Kendrick
January 23, 2012
I would like to extend my sympathies to Sylvia's family and friends. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
K. Nichols
January 23, 2012
Sometimes a family needs to know that people outside of the family really care about how they are feeling when they lose someone. And so, I just want to express my condolences to you for your loss. At the same time, our loving heavenly Father is the "God of all comfort" and he can and will help you through this difficult period because "he cares for you" also.
January 23, 2012
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Glen and his family on the passing of a caring and loving wife, mother and grandmother.
Carolyn and Laura Parent
Kim Swift
January 23, 2012
I am truly saddend to hear of the death of Mrs. Henderson, I had to privlege to care for her at Charlottesville Rehab. Center. She was the most pleasant patient, her smile, and her calmness drew
you close to her.
Remember, that she is safe in the arms of Jesus.
Showing 1 - 28 of 28 results
Make a Donation
in SYLVIA HENDERSON's name
Memorial Events
for SYLVIA HENDERSON
How to support SYLVIA's loved ones
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 more
Resources 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 SYLVIA HENDERSON'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
