Jan Henderson

Janet (Jan) Helen Henderson (69) passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Jan was born December 27, 1955 in Westfield, IN to Donald and Marge Coval who preceded her in passing. She ultimately set roots in Franklin, IN where she and her husband raised their family for 30+ years. Jan dedicated her life to helping others, spending decades as a high school guidance counselor who inspired and supported countless young lives, offering advice, direction, and the kind of encouragement that made people believe in themselves.
At just 20 years old while attending Ball State University, she met and soon married the love of her life, Jerry. Together, they shared nearly 50 years of devotion, partnership, and a deep unconditional love. They were not just partners, but best friends. Jan was a fiercely loving mother to Christopher and Lauren, never missing a milestone, or important moment in their lives. She was the kind of mom you could call five times a day, and she answered every single time. Her greatest joy later in life was becoming a grandmother, a role she truly embraced with her whole heart.
Jan cherished time with her close circle of friends, a competitive game of Euchre or Wii bowling, and a well-made cocktail or glass of wine, especially if accompanied by a sunset over California wine country. She had an infectious joy about her, the kind that made her break into dance anywhere, anytime, especially if Journey was playing. If "Don't Stop Believin'" came on, she would dance with total abandon, it didn't matter where she was or who was watching.
She is survived by her husband Jerry Henderson, children Christopher Henderson (Kim Henderson) and Lauren Henderson (Michael Croce), her grandchildren Clover Childers, Olivia Croce and Cameron Croce, her sister Lynn Haughey, extended family and the many friends, colleagues and former students whose lives she touched.
Jan will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and unwavering love she gave so freely to everyone she met. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she brightened.
A celebration of life reception will be held at The Garment Factory at 101 E. Wayne St. Franklin, IN, 46131 on December 28, 2025 from 3:00pm- 6:00pm. A brief program will begin at 4:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Jan's memory to the Jan Henderson Memorial Scholarship through the Johnson County Community Foundation, which supports scholarships for Franklin students. To make an online donation, please visit www.jccf.org/give-one-time, choose Existing Fund, select NP Fund for Unspecified Gifts. At the bottom of the screen, select In Memory Of and type in Jan Henderson. Checks can be mailed to the Johnson County Community Foundation, 398 S. Main St. Franklin, IN 46131; in the memo line add in memory of Jan Henderson.