Mr. Johnnie Henson, Jr.

Johnnie Henson Jr., 80, of Kansas City, MO, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2024, of natural causes. He was born on August 4, 1943, in Pecan Gap, TX, to Sarah Lee Haynes and Johnnie Henson. He was the third child in a family of 12 siblings. 

Johnnie completed his education at Roxton High School, graduating in 1961. Following in the footsteps of his family members, he relocated to Kansas City, MO and worked for several years at the Jewish Community Center. 

He dutifully served as a Specialist Fourth Class overseas during the Vietnam era in the US Army, completing his commitment in the US Army Reserves. His serve was commemorated with the National Defense Service Medal. 

On March 26, 1970, Johnnie married the love of his life, Minnie Ann Davis, of Kansas City, MO, in a beautiful ceremony. Together, they built a loving family and shared 53 years of love, laughter, and cherished memories. 

Johnnie had a successful career spanning 30 years at Armco Steel, where he achieved the distinction of being the first black Foreman. He retired to prioritize his greatest joy, spending time with his family. 

Johnnie was not only a dedicated soldier and loving family man but also a proud Freemason. His commitment to Freemasonry was evident in his unwavering dedication to its principles of brotherhood, charity, and moral uprightness. As a Freemason, Johnnie exemplified the values of integrity and service, contributing to the betterment of his community and fostering a sense of unity among his fellow Masons. His involvement in Freemasonry reflected his deep-seated belief in the importance of fellowship and the pursuit of knowledge, leaving a lasting impact on those around him. 

An avid carpenter, fisherman, and cook, Johnnie found joy in creating and sharing his passions and knowledge. He had a deep love for music, enjoyed reading the newspaper, and completed crossword and Wordy Gurdy puzzles daily. 

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Mary Lou (Vernon) Williams, Maudie Khalifah, Suzette Davie; and brother, General Wood; brothers-in-law, Larry Davis, Edrick Davis, Curtis Harris, Rufus Ridley; and sisters-in-law, Marcialeen Davis, Luvenia Davis, and Celestine Broom. 

He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his beloved wife Minnie; sons, Jerome Henson and Jonathan Henson; daughters, Valerie Bento and Niccole (Kyron) McClure; brothers, Rick (Regina) Yates, Isaiah Yates; sisters, Linda (Charles) Williams, Barbara Ridley, JoAnn Johnson, Izeta Simpson, Ira Mae Yates; grandchildren, Keisha (Michael) Shaw, Jameel Henson, Milan Henson, Maiya Henson, Kalan McClure, Jaia Henson and Kadence McClure; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends; Special recognition for Aunt Margaret Dulley and Jean Dulley. 

Funeral services to honor Johnnie's life will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, 11 a.m. at Watkins Heritage Chapel. Interment Brooking Cemetery. Visitation from 10a.m.-11 a.m. at the chapel. Condolences may shared on our website.

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