Obituary of Donald J. Henderson

Donald J. Henderson, 76, passed away at home peacefully with his family by his side, on Friday morning, May 13th, after a courageous battle with cancer. Don was born on 9/26/1939, the son of the late Jerome E. and Thelma N. Henderson. He graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1957. On March 17th, 1962, he was united in marriage to Patricia A. Brockway. Don was drafted and served as a MP in the army from 1959 to 1961; one of his duties was patrolling Arlington Cemetery. Don worked for the Rome Postal Service for over 30 years and retired in 1992. After retirement, he then worked as a security guard at Vernon Downs from 1998 until 2014. Throughout the years, Don did many side jobs; he worked as an umpire, drove limousines, painted houses, and answered 911 calls at the Rome Police Station. Don was proud to be a member of the 1955 Henry P. Smith Post New York State American Baseball Championship Team. He was also a member of the Stanwix Men's Club. Don loved to play golf and was in bowling leagues for many years. He loved spending time in his Arizona residence during the winter. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and family Don is survived by his loving wife Patricia, his son Donald Jr. and wife Tricia, and their children Mikal, Connor, Katie, and Courtney; his daughter Julie Henderson; his son David and wife Kim, and their children Brady and Kaley; and his daughter Christine E. Barry and husband Todd, and their daughter Andrea. He is also survived by his sister Sandra Mattingly and her husband Tom of Arizona and their children; Carol Milligan of Florida and her children; and his brother Kenneth and wife Pat also of Florida, and their children. Special relatives include Sandra Sturbin Kochman and husband Ron; and their children, Collin and Capt. Andrew Kochman The funeral service will be held Wednesday at 2:00 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. Burial with Military Honors will be in St. Mary's Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home Tuesday 4 to 7 PM The family is very grateful to the services of Hospice and Palliative Care. In lieu of flowers, send donations to Hospice.