Mr. Bobbie Rayford Henderson Sr.

A gift from God to Booker T. Henderson Sr. and Velma Henderson-Burroughs both who preceded him in death.

Bobbie grew up in Pritchard, AL and discovered his natural athleticism. That innate talent took him to the playing fields of Alabama A&M University where he earned his Associates Degree and a place on the Bulldogs’ football team as a tight-end.

Leaving the Huntsville, Al. campus, Bobbie’s journey of learning continued as he honed a boyhood love of fishing and being near the water which was a happy connection he shared with his children, nieces and nephews throughout life ultimately experiencing the "Big Fish" stories with his long-time fishing buddies Aaron Woods and John Finch.

However, his drive as a lifelong learner steered him towards creating. Garnering numerous apprenticeships his love of music (Blues and Classic R&B) led him to capturing the stories ofartists on the road through his photography.

Travelling the ‘Chitlin’ circuit he shared stories of meeting little know groups such as the Tempo Toppers (which Little Richard was a member) to capturing the moves of James Brown.

When he started his family Bobbie wanted to firmly plant roots and began an apprenticeship as a carpenter and reupholster. Becoming accomplished in those chosen fields he eventually retired working in the healthcare industry.

The constants in his life were his love and dedication for his Catholic faith, his life’s partner, adoration for his children and family, football and cooking. As he would say, “somebody’s gotta know how to fry up the fish.” Which meant he was off to 'wet his hook' and catch more fish and crabs.

Looking back on all Bobbie Rayford Henderson, Sr. experienced and accomplished the Blues provided the perfect soundtrack for his 83-year life’s journey.

The last song he listened to was BB King’s “Why I Sing the Blues” with his daughter Cynthia and his son Vincent as they chatted and reminisced. It was then he gently left this life.

Those of us that will miss his deep laugh and embrace will learn to live without his fish stories, but we take comfort in knowing Bobbie has gone fishing one last time, listening to the Blues and we look forward to the time we will can catch him later.

Bobbie has reunited with his parents and his dear siblings, Booker T. “Sonny” Henderson, Jr., Suzie Forman and Malcolm Burroughs.

Leaving to cherish the memories are his loving and devoted life partner of more than thirty years, Ms. Mary Chambers-Henderson. His children, Tracy J. Dixon-Smith, Vincent C. Henderson-Dixon, Cynthia A. Henderson and Bobbie Rayford Henderson, Jr.

His beloved nieces and nephews, Sonja Jones, Angela Johnson, Aubrey “BoBo” Johnson, Robert Henderson, Anthony “Barry” Johnson, Patrick Johnson, Tyron Johnson, Kevin Jones, Michael Jones, Maurice Jones and LaShell Johnson.

This family that meant everything to Bobbie went on to share with the world a host of

Grand and Great Grandchildren, Great nieces and nephews, cousins and family friends that will

share the fish stories of the man that loved learning and life.