He was born February 19, 1942, in Crestline, Ohio, to the late Bennie D. and Virginia E. (Mayes) Henson. The second oldest of seven children, Jim’s parents were faith driven, hard-working sharecroppers who modeled a stellar work ethic for all their children. Jim graduated from Bucyrus High School with the Class of 1960 and was a proud veteran of the US Army serving from 1960-1963. He began his collegiate career at Bowling Green State University, transferring to and earning his undergraduate and law degree from The Ohio State University. While attending OSU, he worked as a social worker in Columbus. Prior to pursuing the judicial position, Jim practiced law in Cleveland, served in the FBI and worked as an assistant prosecutor for the Richland County Prosecutor’s Office.
Coming from humble beginnings, Jim understood where perseverance, morals, compassion and a strong work ethic could take you. He was first elected as a judge in 1980, at the age of 38, the second youngest Common Pleas Court judge in history at that time. His compassion, strength of character, and desire to serve the public were keys to his being elected to five consecutive 6-year terms, the final one in 2010. He was the longest-serving Common Pleas Court judge in Richland County history, serving 33 years on the bench before retiring in February 2014.
One of Jim’s most impactful achievements came in 1997 when he was instrumental in establishing the first Richland County Substance Abuse Treatment Court, colloquially known as “Drug Court”. This was one of the first such courts of its kind in Ohio and the nation. He was a pioneer in understanding the complexities of life’s challenges and how they could affect one’s life forever. Jim believed in giving people a chance to turn their life around and become a productive member of society by providing them with the tools needed to overcome their situation.
Jim had a servant’s heart—not just in achieving justice but in helping the community. He volunteered with hospice groups and on numerous boards of local organizations. He was a 32nd degree Mason and member of Mansfield Lodge #35, F.&A.M., Baku Grotto, BPOE Elks # 56, American Legion Post #535, Amvets Post #26, Kiwanis Club, Optimist International Club and the Hermits Club. He was a longtime member of First Congregational Church where he became an “honorary” deacon and sang in the church choir. The importance of his faith was evident even in death, passing away on a beautiful Palm Sunday and going to his well-deserved home with the Lord.
While he gave a lot of time to the community, Jim’s family was his ultimate priority. On July 29, 1971, he married the perfect complement to his personality, Joni L. Hisel, in Long Beach, Mississippi. Jim loved the theatre and music and sang with the Mansfield Symphony Chorus. In his spare time, he loved playing tennis and was a lifelong avid reader and learner. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren play sports and participate in school activities. Jim and Joni prioritized family vacations and traveling, with the Gulf coast of Mississippi being one of their favorite destinations. His love for his dogs was unmatched and they accompanied him in the car whenever possible. Being a proud OSU graduate, Jim was an avid OSU Buckeye fan his entire life and proudly sported their colors. OH—IO!
Jim is survived by his wife of more than 53 years, Joni Henson; two daughters, Kelly Marie (Matt) Mott and Kristen Michele (Shane) Wiltanger; four grandchildren, Corbin James Matheny, Jordan Lane Kirk, Benjamin James Wiltanger, and Shelbi Grace Sullivan; five great-grandchildren, Grace Kelly Kirk, Waylon Walter Kirk, Wesson Whitley Kirk, Gunnar James Matheny, and William Joseph Matheny; three sisters, Dorothy MacGowan, Sharon (Richard) Lookabaugh, and Jenny (Mark) Menke; sister-in-law, Brenda Henson; many nieces and nephews; and several cousins and extended family members.
In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by three brothers, Larry Wayne Henson, Gary William Henson and Philip Jeffrey Henson; and a brother-in-law, Robert MacGowan.
A celebration of Jim’s remarkable life will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church. Memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church, Operations Fund, 640 Millsboro Road, Mansfield, Ohio, 44903 (https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/S8S5GQSNPV8PY)
To Jim, his community was a priority. Giving of his time, talents and friendship was second nature to him. He will be fondly remembered for his smile, always having a kind word to say and a warm hug when needed.
Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario is honored to serve the family.
