Thomas P. Henderson

“Tom”

Age 82 of Morris, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Loyola University Medical Center with his daughter and granddaughter by his side, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Born August 3, 1943, in Morris, Thomas was the son of Henry and Ruby (Ness) Henderson. He married the true love of his life, Nancy P. Hann, on May 30, 1964, at the First Presbyterian Church in Morris, and together they lived their whole married life in Morris. Tom was a hard worker his whole life, born into farming and beginning his career in 1963 with Self-Locking Paper Manufacturing, where he remained through its transitions as Diamond International, Jefferson Smurfit, Altivia, and Smurfit Stone, retiring after many dedicated years with the same paper manufacturing company under its various names. He kept everything going and provided for his family, knowing that if there was a job to be done, he would be there to do it.

Tom was a proud member of the Paperworkers union, Aerospace union, and the US Steelworkers Union. He was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 967 in Morris, and the John Deere 2 Cylinder Club. He was a John Deere man, enjoying all types of tractors including his 720, his lawn tractors, and his collectibles. "You can take the boy out of the farm, but you can't take the farm out of the boy." A lover of many things, including his faithful dog Buddy, Tom also enjoyed growing and sharing amazingly abundant gardens, going fishing, tinkering with anything; especially if it had a motor, and vacations with his family.

Tom was the best teacher; the best person to talk to, always with a listening ear, with a kind heart and the strongest shoulders to lean on. Though he passed away unexpectedly, and there is heartbreak in losing him, he will be remembered as a beloved husband, devoted dad, doting grandpa, best papa ever, and a true friend who lived his life with unwavering love and dedication to his family.

Survivors include his daughter, Robin (Raymond) Mitchell of Morris; three grandchildren: Aleda Mitchell and Zachary Mitchell, both of Morris, and Tabitha (Chris) Regnier of Channahon; three great grandchildren: Gemma Mitchell and Christopher and Tahlulah Regnier; who his legacy will continue to flourish through; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and one brother: Joseph Henderson.

Per Tom's wishes, cremation rites are being accorded.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation at Fruland Funeral Home, 121 West Jefferson Street, in Morris on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. until the time of memorial service at 4:00 p.m. In keeping with Tom's love for the Gathering of the Green; all are invited to wear John Deere green.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Tom's memorial page.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-0700)