JoAnn (Richards) Henderson, loving wife, mother and grandmother passed away at the age of 73.
Joann was born on November 29th, 1947 in Nashville, TN to Robert and Blanche Richards. Spending most of her young life in West Des Moines, IA, she graduated from Valley High in 1966 and 2 years later met the love of her life, Dennis Henderson, who she married right before Christmas in 1968. There she become the proud mother of Michelle Lee Henderson and Matthew Dennis Henderson. She was very involved in the local community as part of the Jaycee-ettes and as a Girl Scout Leader. She spent over 30 years as a radiology technician and received high praises and honors for the way she treated her patients. In 1985, Joann moved with her family to the Kansas City, MO area and then to Longwood, FL in 1991. In 1996 she and her husband settled in Apopka, FL where she lived the rest of her very full days.
In Apopka, she was a member of the Erroll Estate Country Club and took up a new passion, golf, at the age of 50. She was a very active member of the First United Methodist Church of Apopka since 1997. After retiring in 2015, she volunteered at the local school and served as President of the Women’s Golf Association and the Head of the Jubilee Circle.
Never to know a stranger, JoAnn was known for her quick wit, her kind and compassionate spirit, as well as her strong faith. She wrote in her bible, “Faith doesn’t get you around trouble, it gets you through it.”
JoAnn is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Blanche Richards, sister Roberta Hayward and brother-in-law Kip Hayward. She is survived by her dear and loving husband, Dennis Henderson, her kind and adoring daughter Michelle Rittenhouse, doting son Matthew Henderson (Andrea), and beautiful grandchildren Emily and Ben Rittenhouse and Audrey, Olivia and Franco Carroll.
Her funeral service will be held Friday March 12th at 11am Eastern Time at the First United Methodist Church of Apopka, FL. Services will be streamed via their Facebook Page. In lieu of donations, please consider making a donation in JoAnn’s name to the United Methodist Children’s Home
Anne Snow says
I was a radiology student under Joanne and then worked with her for most of her last 10 years at South Seminole hospital. She was a wonderful example for patient care and gave me confidence in all aspects of diagnostic exams, especially in the OR. She was terribly missed when she retired and I pray her family members will be strengthened by all who knew and loved her!
Kristen Hickey says
Joann was a pleasure to work with at South Seminole Hospital. She will remain loved and missed. Offering our deepest condolences and sympathy during this difficult time. RIP sweet Joann.
Judith Cagle says
We never really lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought, and decision we make. Their love forever leaves an indelible imprint in our memories and on our lives.
Rest in peace dear friend.
Judy Cagle
Judith Cagle says
Someone once said that we never really lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought, and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories and on our daily lives.
Rest in peace dear friend.
Judy Cagle
Jan Yanders says
We were across the street neighbors in Johnston, Iowa for 12 years and I could cry for days after they moved. JoAnn and I had many great memories in Jaycee-ettes. We missed the whole family. Through the 36 years that followed, we remained good friends. It’s true JoAnn will be close in my heart forever. RIP dear friend!
Ruth Callaghan says
Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda Dubbs says
JoAnn was a beautiful lady inside and out. She was my friend and my support. When I lost another good friend, Jan Holbrook, JoAnn always made sure I felt welcome at every Church Event. She always made sure I was included in our after church breakfasts, that made me feel like I was part of the group. Sometimes, when I was feeling inadequate, felt I wasn’t a good enough Christian, she would always build me up with positive words. I will miss her Style, Her little giggle, and our long telephone conversations. I pray that her family finds comfort in knowing how much so many loved and cared for her.
Richie Budhan says
I met Joanne when I was 19 yrs old..rt out of high school and early in my career she instantly became one of the moms I worked with,always loving,caring,nurturing and sometimes had to crack the whip,only because I was young and immature..what an amazing chicken pot pie she made as well as apple pie! Had to be granny Smith apples she always stressed.She molded me as I was new to the medical field and showed me many things to this day I still share about to co workers…truly sad news but will have to rejoice knowing she is resting …thank you Joanne for everything you taught me!
Elaine Frevert says
I am so sorry you have lost your beloved JoAnn. I went to Valley High School with her and we graduated in 1966. I remember her so clearly, such a kind and loving classmate. After reading her obit, I’m not surprised the difference she made in so many life’s’. At the 55 year class reunion this September, in West Des Moines, I will make make sure she is remembered as one of the best. In friendship and sympathy , Elaine Frevert