Don “Pop Pop” Alfred Henson, 81, of Columbia, TN, died with family at his side on March 18, 2023 after a short battle with cancer. He was born in Dallas, TX, to Gladys (Keith) and Owen Henson on February 3, 1942. He was the youngest of two sons and shared a special bond with his brother Gary.
Don spent much of his childhood in Stephenville, TX, where many fond memories were made. He graduated from East High School in Denver, CO, and attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock on a baseball scholarship.
While living in Dallas he was promoted to National Sales Manager for several companies, most notably in the automotive industry. He took great pride in his leadership accomplishments and had much success training other salesmen.
Don’s mantra was simple: Love people and do good. He was a peacekeeper with an easy-going spirit. He never met a stranger and always looked for the good in others and in his circumstances. He experienced the most joy being with the people he loved and attending the Primitive Baptist Church. He also enjoyed good food, playing golf, watching football, and was known among friends for his mouth-watering brisket. Other hobbies included water aerobics, shooting pool, bowling and spending time with his dog Bao Bao.
Don attended Wilson Creek Primitive Baptist Church and was also a faithful member of the Chattanooga Primitive Baptist Church for many years.
He was a family man through and through and is survived by his children: Christian O’Hern (Aaron), Brendon Henson (Cayleen), Brittany Semadeni (Earl) and Alyssa Bear (Joe). He is also survived by the mother of his children, Gayle, of Hixson, TN, and his beloved grandchildren: Christopher and Woodson O’Hern and Jude and Naomi Semadeni.
While he will be deeply missed, we praise God for the rejoicing in Heaven as he has been reunited with his son Christopher and 5th grandchild, Logan Conrad Henson. He is preceded in death by his parents Gladys and Owen Henson and brother Gary, among others that had a special place in his heart.
A private burial will be held, followed by a public celebration of life event TBD.
The family would like to express our thanks for the support and special care Don received from a variety of caregivers and the Goldton of Spring Hill. If desired, friends may make memorial contributions to Don Henson’s GoFundMe page.
