Billy Joe Henderson

Born in Jackson, MS, July 9, 1943, Billy grew up in the Plain Community of Rankin County, now known as Richland, MS. He attended area schools, graduating from Florence High School, Class of '61. In January 1962, Billy joined the US Marine Corps. While on leave in 1963, he met Carol Dawn McNeil, married, and moved to his next assignment all within 30 days.

Upon his Honorable discharge in 1966, Billy returned to his family in Mississippi and soon after was hired by South Central Bell/Bellsouth/AT&T retiring after 33 years.

Over the years Billy and his wife pursued many hobbies such as the Celtic Heritage Society where he coordinated the visiting athletes attending the Highland Games, Clan Henderson USA serving as President, and the Budgerigar Society traveling coast to coast to various bird shows.

After retirement Billy dedicated his efforts to support of our Veterans and related programs. He acted as coordinator and spokesperson for Marine Toys for Tots for several years, worked wherever needed at the Trail of Honor, and assisted the Patriot Guard during escorts of the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall. He was a long-time member of the Marine Corps League, serving as Commandant of the Central MS Detachment and as Commandant of the Department of MS.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Webster Henderson, Jr and Lounell Herran Henderson, and brother, Bobby Ray Henderson.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carol Dawn McNeil Henderson, son, Eric ‘Ricky’ Henderson, sister Frankie Richardson, and nephews Jeffrey Richardson, Bryan Richardson.

A visitation for Billy will be held Friday, November 15, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home, 3780 Highway 80 E, Pearl, Mississippi 39208, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Burial will take place at the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Newton, Mississippi on Monday, November 18, 2024 at the committal pavilion at 11:00am.