Fred Hamilton Henderson, Sr., aged 76, of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on January 11, 2026. He courageously battled Parkinson’s Disease for 22 years, yet remained defined by his resilience and unwavering spirit rather than his illness. Throughout his life, Fred maintained a vibrant sense of humor and a steadfast determination that inspired those around him.
Born and raised in Washington, Pennsylvania, Fred graduated from Trinity High School in 1967. He pursued his passion for journalism at Point Park College, where he completed his bachelor’s degree in 1974 after serving in the Army Reserves from 1971 to 1977. On April 17, 1971, he married Margaret Truax Henderson, the love of his life, and together they built a family that would bring him immense joy.
Fred’s commitment to his faith was evident through his active participation at St. Michael’s in Levittown, where he served as an usher and was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus for 25 years. His philanthropic spirit shone through as he worked at charity events, including bingo at Prince of Peace, and ultimately, he made a significant contribution to Parkinson’s research by donating his brain to Shands.
Throughout his career, Fred lived in various locations including Jacksonville, Alabama, and multiple cities across Florida, such as Fort Lauderdale and Daytona Beach. He retired in 2012 and settled in The Villages, where he continued to thrive. His travels took him to numerous countries, including Ecuador, Switzerland, and Italy, enriching his life with diverse experiences.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Fred enjoyed playing sports such as golf, tennis, and bowling. He also embraced pickleball in his later years. A dedicated fan of Penn State, he passionately supported his team every weekend, and he never missed a chance to cheer for the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sundays. Fred’s true pride, however, came from supporting his children and grandchildren in their various activities, from academics to sports, always being their most ardent supporter.
Fred is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret, after 55 years of marriage, along with their three children: Fred Jr. (Erin), Christopher (Erica), and Heather Kitchel (Jason). He also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Cole, Mason, Stevie, Johnnie, Logan, and Gabe. He was preceded in death by his mother, Josephine Jane Henderson; father, Fred Chester Henderson; sister, Joyce Henderson Thornburg; and brother-in-law, Dave Thornburg.
As the community reflects on Fred’s remarkable life, his legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering support will continue to inspire those who knew him. His family and friends are left with fond memories of a man who faced challenges with grace and a smile.
