Debra Mae Hensley

On May 20, 2024, at the age of 74, Deb Hensley went home to be with her Savior, the one to whom she gave all the glory, honor and praise. Deb was a beacon of love and generosity. She was known for her unwavering dependability and her willingness to offer a helping hand or a listening ear. She was a selfless and gracious sister, compassionate aunt, loving wife and a dedicated follower of Christ. On December 21, 1967, Deb married the love of her life, Rick Hensley. They were very adventurous from camping, hiking, hosting church and family gatherings and bringing comical plays to life. They cherished their moments together. These unexpected, unforgettable memories led to her nickname “The Fun Aunt.” She always tried to make the most of every moment. Deb valued those she loved. Anyone that knew her knew how important her family was to her. Her encouragement lifted the spirits of those around her, providing comfort and inspiration in times of need. Deb dedicated her life to giving, whether it was through her time, wisdom, poems or endless acts of kindness! Deb served as the office bookkeeper at John Legg’s Heating and Air for over 40 years where she was blessed with some incredible friendships. In her spare time, she loved to write letters and poems, she touched many hearts with her writing. She also loved “sightseeing” with her sister, Pat Christian. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we are thankful she finally made it “home,” as Heaven was the place she longed for.

 

Deb was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Edith Byrd; beloved husband, Rick Hensley; brother-in-law, Cricket Christian; cherished sister, Pat Christian; and several aunts.

 

Survivors include her loving siblings, Pam (Sam) Quillen and Jim (Cathy, whom she loved as a true sister) Byrd; nephews, Josh (Tabitha) Quillen and Caleb (fiancée, Jamie Henderson) Quillen; nieces, Nikki and Keeli Byrd; great-nieces, Railey and Gracie Quillen; and her cat, Ms. Puss.

 

The family will receive friends on Friday, May 24, 2024 from 5:00-7:00pm at Springdale Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral services will be conducted at 7:00pm with Pastor Alan Buckles officiating.

 

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 1:00pm at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

 

Pallbearers will be Jim Byrd, Nikki Byrd, Keeli Byrd, Josh Quillen, Caleb Quillen, Railey Quillen and Gracie Quillen.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be make to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Holston Home for Children, 404 Holston Dr., Greeneville, TN 37743.