James William Henderson

James William Henderson, a beloved father, husband, grandfather, brother, and friend to many, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, at the age of 74.

Jim, or “Big Jim” as he was affectionately known, was a man with rough hands and an incredibly big heart. Those who knew him could always rely on him for his time, his strength, and his willingness to listen. Jim was always there.

His life was storied, beginning in New England, spanning the globe, and eventually settling in Texas. He raised his family with his devoted wife, Brenda Lee Henderson, whom he had known since childhood, and later became a cherished grandfather. After Brenda’s passing, Jim found love and partnership again, marrying Dawn Ehrhardt-Henderson in 2018, where she remained by his side through the final chapters of his life.

In his youth, Jim was a standout athlete, excelling in hockey and football in Amesbury, Massachusetts. He became a gifted tennis player, leading him to instruct the sport and compete across Europe and Australia. Later in life, he found joy in golf, spending many days on the fairway perfecting his game.

Jim was a builder whose life was defined through work done by his hands. A graduate of the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, he was an avid mechanic who worked on everything from motorcycles and family cars to semi-trucks. The open road called to him throughout his life, whether hauling shipments across the country or riding one of his Harley-Davidsons.

Many loved Jim as a true old-school gentleman. He preferred his actions to speak louder than words, yet he was always the one who would pick up the phone, show up, and stand steady for the people he cared about.

Jim’s loss will be deeply felt by all who loved him. He leaves behind his loving wife, Dawn; his siblings Ed, Nancy, and Dianne, along with their spouses; his children Kristen, Donny, Scott, Jimmy and stepdaughter Brightan, and their spouses; and his beloved grandchildren Teilar, Kamryn, Philip, and Parker. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Brenda Lee (Morrill) Henderson, and his mother, Margaret E. (Goddard) Dollen.

A Memorial Service will be held on December 6, 2025 from 3-5pm at The Owl 315 S. Main St. Bryan, TX 77803 and then a service will be held in New England in the summer of 2026.

He will also be missed by countless friends, extended family, coworkers, and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

“Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Looking for adventure In whatever comes our way”