Linda Jo Henson

Our beloved mother, Nana, sister, aunt and friend, Mrs. Linda Jo Henson, passed away peacefully on Monday evening, April 13, 2020 in Tyler, Texas. Never wavering, through the darkest days and most unimaginable times, her dear husband of 62 years displayed the true meaning of unconditional love, without end and was always by her side.

Linda was born September 9, 1943, in Dallas, TX, a daughter of the late Elmo Bailey Woodlee and Allie Mae Akins Woodlee.

Linda married the love of her life, James Earl Henson in 1957. Together they lived in Dallas, where they raised their two children; Jimmy and Chorissa.

For many years she worked for a daycare; sharing her kind, caring, gentle and patient heart with many children (whom also thought of her as their “Nana”). She certainly had a way of making everyone feel like they were a part of her family.

Linda had a profound love for her family. Any time spent with those she loved brought her the most joy and happiness. As for her second love in life, I can’t say for sure, but would be willing to bet it could be; celebrating Christmas (months before and bargain shopping after), her gambling trips to Louisiana or her passion for racing! This lady deeply loved racing (especially those Saturday nights spent at Thunderbird Speedway), watching her favorite #17 car, her favorite drivers -Jimmy and Tim, NASCAR on TV and of course “The Intimidator”!

Nana also enjoyed teaching her grandkids some of the most simple, yet important, things in life. Like, how-to make the best mud pies during the summer, how to use a needle and thread, how to crotchet (which some of us never figured out), how to beautifully wrap gifts and to NEVER throw away a pretty bow! I’m not sure what your experiences were like, as a child, when spending the night/weekend with grandparents but Nana made every minute a very special memory. She will be missed so much and never forgotten.

Linda was a wonderfully devoted wife who is survived by; husband, James Henson. A loving mother to; son, Jimmy Henson; daughter, Chorissa and Tim Haydin. The greatest Nana to her grandchildren, Jamie and Dustin Davis, Alyssa Haydin and Matthew Henson; great-grandchildren, Branson, Aisley, Hayes and was looking forward to the arrival of sweet baby Isabelle, due in July. She was cherished and loved by her brother, Steve and Vicki Woodlee; brother, Vinson and Sherry Woodlee.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Elmo and Allie Woodlee; sister, Lovita Thompson.

A memorial service will be held at a future date.