In Loving Memory of our Beloved Honorary CCF Member: Ms. Ora Henson

Mrs. Ora Henson, 83 transitioned on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Baptist Health in Little Rock, Arkansas. Ora Lee Canady Henson was born March 19, 1942, to the late Johnny and Jaretha Canady. Ora professed a hope in Christ at an early age and was a member of New Mt. Zion Methodist Church in Cleveland, AR.

On November 5, 1960. She was united in marriage to the late Mr. William Henson Sr. To this union five children were born. Ora worked at Crompton Arkansas Mills and Arrow Automotive until they closed. She last worked at Conway County Hospital (CHI-St. Vincent-Morrilton)

Ora was a loving kindhearted woman, always willing to give a helping hand. She would faithfully go to the cemetery on cleanup day and do all she could to help, never complaining about her health. She endured a lot but giving up was not an option.

She is proceeded in death by her parents; husband; son; Glenn Henson; daughter; Beverly Henson; brothers; Harold Hildred and Allen Canady; sisters; Marilyn Evette Canady and Ernestine Grant.

Ora leaves to mourn her passing son; William (Brigette) Henson, Jr. of Kansas City, Mo; daughters, Anita (Bobby) Mitchell of Russellville, AR; Kimberly (Kim) Branson of Little Rock, AR; sisters, Alamarie Smith of Niles, MI; Bettye Funderburke of Kansas City, MO; Rosemary (Neal) Payne of Cleveland, AR; Terri (Ketch) Fowler of Orlando, Fl; sister-in-laws; Ivo Foster and Ophelia Monroe of Kansas City, Mo and Clardine Canady of Grandview, Mo; bonus son Melvin Payne of Cleveland, AR; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren;five great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Ms. Henson was an honorary member of the CCF since the foundation’s inception. Her unwavering dedication to the organization was evident through her consistent presence at senior programs and Lunch & Learn events.

She often gave up her cherished soap opera time to be among her fellow community members—socializing, sharing stories, offering her time to various community projects, and generously passing on her wisdom and life experiences. Her warmth, commitment, and presence enriched the lives of everyone around her.

She will be deeply missed, but her spirit and contributions will remain a lasting part of our community.