Ralph William Henderson

Ralph William Henderson Jr. of Talent, Oregon passed away February 4, 2026, succumbing to post-surgical complications. He was 69 years old.

Ralph was born in Long Beach, California in 1956, to Helen and Ralph Henderson Sr. After attending Long Beach City College, Ralph started his own business of yacht maintenance in Long Beach and eventually moved to Palm Springs and began a construction career. In the 1980's he moved to Talent, Oregon with his future wife Judy Williams (later Henderson). He rapidly became an established resident, first working for Talent Irrigation District, and then as the Certified Red Cross instructor at Rogue Community College (RCC), all the while volunteering with the Jackson County Fire District #5 in Talent. Ralph was later offered a teaching position at RCC, and in the late 90's became the Department Chair of the Construction Technology department until he retired in 2017.

Ralph was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Henderson, and brother Thomas (Tom) Henderson. He is survived by his companion Carol Lee Rogers, his sisters Lynda Henderson and Beverly (Johnny) Avelar, his dedicated grandson Sean (Dawn) Williams, his brother-of -the-heart Jim (Gina) McCann, sister-in-law Lin (Tom) Henderson, Judy's children Laurel (Greg) Stevens, Mike (Mary) Williams, and his dear friends who he considered family.

Ralph had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed activities which included hiking, fishing, cycling and international travel - often at the same time.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Medford, Oregon on June 27, 2026.

All friends, relatives, past students, and colleagues who would like to be a part of this tribute are welcomed. Further details regarding time and location will be posted April 15, 2026 on this link.

Ralph was a loyal friend, a mentor, a loving and caring brother. He was a man with a joke to tell, was always ready to lend a hand, and had a smile for everyone. He will be sorely missed.