Deanne E. Henderson

Obituary For Deanne E. Henderson

Deanne E. Henderson, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the Hospice House surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 4, 1940, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to the union of Demaris Holiday-Jackson and Charles Jackson. An only child, Deanne, reflected that her mother passed during the process of childbirth. Deanne always celebrated the Independence Day holiday joyfully—an "Independence Day baby," as she fondly called herself, filled with a spirit that matched the fireworks lighting up the sky on the national holiday.

Deanne, affectionately called Momma Dee, dedicated her life to serving others. After graduating from South High School in 1958, the proud Warrior attended college to pursue a degree in nursing. However, after several years, this quest was deferred when she answered the call to protect and defend this nation. Deanne enlisted and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as a Private First Class.

Upon completion of her impressive military service, Deanne transitioned into a fulfilling career that allowed her to make significant contributions to her community. She was the Executive Secretary to the President at Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles. Upon returning to her hometown, Dee provided clerical administrative support to the Diagnostic & Evaluation and the Public Library of Youngtown and Mahoning County. A lover of literature, Dee read voraciously and considered clerking at the library as an added value both as an employee and patron.

Deanne had a special knack for whipping up delicious meals, with her perfected creations drawing praise from all who tasted them. It is a fact; Dee knew her way around the kitchen and cooking was her love language. Flavor and presentation were her trademarks. Her mouth-watering sweet potato casserole, astonishing confectionary creations and her famous gumbo were created without shortcuts- hand and heart made from scratch. She enjoyed creating French and Creole cuisines, preferring to enrich the palates of those she prepared with a sampling of something different. She earned and enjoyed bragging rights when preparing roux. She would share with her daughter approvingly, “Your momma sure knows how to make roux!”

A member of Holy Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, Deanne was known not just for her extraordinary culinary skills but also for her commitment to her faith and the community. She actively participated in the culinary arts ministry and shared her love for learning through mid-week Biblical instruction. Psalms 118:28-29 resonated deeply with her: “You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you.” Her faith sustained her through life's challenges and rooted her unwavering independence.

Her passion for helping others was paralleled only by her love for her family and friends. As the matriarch, Dee was particularly close to her family. Deanne's legacy is carried on by her loving daughter, Susan E. Henderson; her beloved son, Ronald F. Henderson; her cherished grandson, Zachary Colston; and her adoring great-grandson, Julian Colston.

As Deanne crossed the celestial sands into eternity, she was reunited with her parents and her husband Harry Henderson, whom she married May 20, 1960, until parted at his death in March 1976.

As we reflect on Deanne's remarkable journey—marked by love, service, and a zest for life—we will forever cherish the memories she created and the warmth she brought into our lives. She will be missed immensely but remembered fondly by all who knew her.

Family and friends will gather to honor Deanne's life and legacy at her Celebration of Life services on Thursday July 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM with a public viewing in the chapel of the J.E. Washington Funeral Home, 2234 Glenwood Ave in Youngstown, Ohio. The funeral services will begin at 11:00 AM with her pastor, Rev. Lewis W. Macklin II serving as the celebrant.

Following the committal ceremony, Dee will be laid to rest within the serene meadows of Tod Homestead Cemetery, 2200 Belmont Ave, Youngstown, OH with military honors presentation administered by the United States Marine Corp.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Deanne E. Henderson elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm worn
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand, precious Lord
Lead me home.

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