James R. Henson, Sr.

James R. Henson, Sr., resident of Beggs, passed away Tuesday morning, January 21, 2014 in Henryetta at the age of 83. He was born January 16, 1931 in Okmulgee to the late Robert Oscar and Gladys Evelyn (Lawson) Henson. He attended Preston High School , East Central University, Oklahoma State University and the University of Tulsa, receiving a Masters and Professional Degree. James proudly served his country in the United States Army. James married Joan Gray on February 20, 1954 at the First Baptist Church in Okmulgee. James worked for schools in Okmulgee County, including Wilson, Twin Hills, and Preston where he coached, taught and served as principal. He was a principal and coach at Beggs for two years then served as Superintendent of Beggs Public Schools for 20 years, retiring in 1990. James enjoyed gardening and building homes and the fellowship hall at the church. He had served as a Deacon at First Baptist Church in Beggs and was a member of the Crossroads Baptist Church. He was a member of the Beggs Masonic Lodge, School Masters Association, Okmulgee County Excise Board, the Okmulgee County Health Department Board and former President and member of the Secondary Schools Association. James loved kids and was always there to help those in need. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Mary Lou Cline and Joanna Lloyd and a brother, Roald Henson. Survivors include his wife Joan of Beggs, daughter, Janet Lile and husband Travis of Arlington, Texas, a son, Jim Henson, Jr., of Grandfalls, Washington, two grandchildren, Kimberly Baker and Taylor Lile, a great grandchild, Christian James Baker and two brothers, David Henson and wife Judy of Wilson and Ralph Henson and wife Carol of Tulsa. A funeral service will be held 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 25, 2014 at the Crossroads Baptist Church with Pastor Travis Markes officiating. Interment will follow in the Beggs Cemetery. Casketbearers Leslie Johnston, Bill Anderson, Larry Harvey, Buz Henson, Jerry Cadion and Steve Swanson. The Deacons of the Crossroads Baptist Church will serve as honorary casketbearers. Arrangements are under the direction of the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Beggs. Memorial contributions may be made in James' name to the Crossroads Baptist Church.

James R. Henson, Sr.

January 16, 1931 - January 21, 2014