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Jack Wendell Henderson

1940-2023

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Jack Wendell Henderson

Jack Wendell Henderson

Jack Wendell Henderson was born to Ernest “Pete” and Mary Henderson in Waverly, Ill., on March 6, 1940. Jack was raised with his sister, Faye.

While attending high school he excelled at running and proudly won a State championship in track. Jack moved to live in South Texas in his 20s and spent 40 years living in Floresville, Texas, where he established many friendships with kind and caring people that lasted until his death on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at the age of 83. During his decline in health, these friends watched over him and protected him in many ways, and the family would like to extend deep appreciation and thanks to them.

Jack worked as a master farrier and as a horse trainer. He married Carolyn Millar in 1981. While working full-time, Carolyn also helped Jack with his business, scheduling and managing his appointments. Jack developed a reputation as a highly skilled farrier and trainer. He won many awards, including Nationals with the majestic Appaloosa, Top Prince. In his later years, he created beautiful custom-made spurs and became an accomplished craftsman. Jack enjoyed making playhouses for the grandkids and entertaining them with tractor rides and weenie roasts!

Jack was able to work into his 80s and to live independently until, by necessity, his journey led him to Franklin Park’s Memory Care Unit, where their staff and Embrace Hospice provided him with loving care. The family appreciates the support of the kind and caring staff, who ensured Jack felt safe and loved during his last months of life.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn; his stepson, John “Johnny” Albert Tarro III; and grandson John “JT” Albert Tarro IV.

Jack is survived by his sister, Faye (Don) Etter; niece Lisa (John) Thompson; nephew Lynn (Karen) Etter; numerous great-nieces and -nephews; his stepdaughters, Carolyn (Bob) Coles, Cynthia Samsel-Hernandez (Ed), and Jamie ZumMallen; grandchildren Jennifer Hamel, Kristin Silva, Chandra Donahue, Sydney ZumMallen, Michael ZumMallen, and Matthew Coles; and numerous great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 14, at 11 a.m. in the Porter Loring Mortuary in San Antonio.

The family will hold a private interment.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.