Elbert Louis Henderson Sr.

Elbert Louis Henderson, Sr., a longtime resident of Olmsted, IL, passed away at the age of 78 on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Massac Memorial Hospital in Metropolis, IL. Elbert was the last son born on April 30, 1946, to Lee and Jessie Lee (Cooper) Henderson in Leavings (now Olmsted).
Elbert was an avid gardener who cultivated both vegetables and beautiful flowers. He loved God and professed his belief in his teens. He joined Post 178 of the American Legion and participated in the Honor Guard and flag ceremonies. He had a love for family and community, always greeting friends alike with a smile.
Elbert attended Washington Grade School, Lovejoy, and Grand Chain High School. He was also a graduate of Century High School in 1964. He was employed at General Motors in Detroit before enlisting in the Air Force, where he served as a Safety Security Officer (MP) in both Thailand and the Philippines. He was honorably discharged in 1969 and resumed employment until his retirement in 1995, at which point he moved back to Olmsted.
Elbert is preceded in death by both parents and four siblings: Lola Stovall (2014), Joseph, Levi, and Minnie Williams-Chaney, all in 2019.
Elbert leaves to mourn a son, Elbert Louis, Jr. of Nevada; two brothers, George and Freddy (Cindy); two sisters, Jessie Kimmins and Mildred Henderson, all of Olmsted; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many close friends.
Life Celebration Services will take place on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Massie Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M. until the funeral hour of 11:30 A.M. The funeral service will begin at 11:30 A.M., with Rev. K. Donnell Wilson officiating and Rev. Ronnie Woods as eulogist. Interment will follow in the Mound City National Cemetery at 1:00 P.M. Online condolences may be left at WWW.MASSIEFUNERALHOME.COM. Professional service and care are entrusted to Massie Funeral Home in Mounds, IL 62964.