Gordon Thomas Henderson "Buddy"

Buddy, at 79, found eternal rest on May 28, 2025. He left this world peacefully with his loving wife, Carol, and his dog, Ripley, following a lengthy battle with cancer that never dulled his positive energy. Buddy was born on April 5, 1946, and grew up in Marbury, Maryland. He often said he spent his childhood freely in a small town with a close sense of community. Buddy's life was marked by a creative spirit, innovation and dedication to his family. His parents both provided a strong foundation of faith and encouragement in his life.

Dyslexia made attending college difficult after graduating from Lackey High School in 1964. With a desire to serve, Buddy enlisted in the Navy and headed to bootcamp in January 1966. He received training in New Mexico for nuclear weapons and used this knowledge along with gunner's mate training aboard the USS America until mid-1969. Buddy was honorably discharged and was awarded several commendations. He would say the military opened his eyes; it helped him grow, enhanced his skills and fostered relationships.

Following the Navy, Buddy worked at the Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Facility in Maryland and then the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, Virginia for two years in Engineering Design. He developed two Navy patents.

In 1973, the desire to stop making weapons prompted Buddy to seek self-employment. Buddy and his dad purchased Auto Discount Center in Indian Head, Maryland. Buddy would later be able to take over this business and develop a thriving auto parts store and full-service machine shop. He partnered with the Vo-tech Center of Charles County, Maryland from 1993-1996 and served on the Charles County Board of Zoning Appeals. Buddy sold Auto Discount Center and Daredevil Machine Shop in 2003 and moved on to restore high-end cars and antique restorations for clients. He often said that being in business allowed him to help people and he "never worked a day in his life."

Finding the waterfront home in Florida and being able to retire into a home on the water was a dream come true. Buddy and Carol moved to Florida as full-time residents in 2014 where they continued to enjoy boating, dancing, singing together to Buddy's guitar playing and pursuing new friendships. Throughout Buddy's life he was a fixer. He embraced building, designing and artistic challenges; he loved history, enjoyed metal detecting and wood burning that he often gave to friends.

Buddy was a fun, enthusiastic husband, father, son, brother and friend who will be greatly missed. He adored his daughters and grandchildren as seen in photographs with joyful embraces and big smiles. His favorite question was "Who loves you?" Warmly reminding his family, "Buddy loves you."

Buddy is survived by his wife Carol Henderson of 35 years; children Heather Yake (Nathaniel); Elizabeth Henderson (Gregory) and Stefanie Sullivan (Patrick); his grandchildren Ethan, Evann, Lila, Anika, Abigail and Autumn; his mother Ruth Henderson; sister Janet Dill; sister-in-law Linda Green and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Buddy is preceded in death by his father and best friend Gordon T. Henderson, Sr.

A celebration of life will take place in Florida and Maryland at a later date. Contributions may be directed to Tidewell Hospice of Port Charlotte, Marbury Baptist Church or the charitable organization of your preference.