Service Friday April 28, 2023 12 Noon Welch Street Church Of Christ Bro Rodney Smith, Pastor

Visitation Thursday, April 27, 2023 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Wells Chapel 811 Woods Street

Billie Ruth Henderson, affectionately known to many as “Big Mama”, was born March 14, 1929, in Eastland, Texas, to the late Charlie and Phyllis Lewis, and was the fourth of seven children. She was peacefully called from Labor to await her Reward on April 20, 2023, in Wichita Falls, Texas. Her family moved to Midland, Texas when Billie was a very young child, and it was there she spent much of her life. She graduated from Carver High School and briefly attended college, having to withdraw to take care of her father whose health was failing. She met and married Joe Henderson, who precedes her in death. Billie worked as a cook and in private homes until her retirement. Billie was a proud, hard-working woman with strong work ethics. She never learned how to drive; however, she never allowed it to be a stumbling block for taking care of whatever needed to be done. She walked wherever she needed to go and took a taxi when she had the means. She was a firm believer in God and a faithful member of the Church of Christ. When Billie’s health began to decline, she relocated to Wichita Falls, Texas, in 2011, where she was lovingly cared for by her daughter, Beverly and her family. She immediately placed her membership with the Welch Street Church of Christ, and faithfully attended and supported worship services, Bible classes and special events until she was no longer physically able. In 2021, Sis. Henderson was recognized as “Mother of the Church”. Billie was a joy to be around, and she lovingly touched the hearts of many. Her presence, laughter, wisdom, and witty conversations will truly be missed. Preceding Billie Ruth in death includes: her parents; two brothers-Jay Lewis and James ("Uncle B") Howard; three sisters-Lovie Lewis, Ruby Delce, Blanche Taylor; three sons-James Rose, Bruce Rose, Mark Henderson; one daughter-Nancy Ruth Henderson. Billie leaves to cherish her memory: her children – Bobby Ray Rose (Lillian) and Joel Brian Rose of Austin, TX; Milton Rose of Midland, TX; Beverly Eaden (Ray) of Wichita Falls, TX; Mildred Henderson of Bryan, TX; Roger Henderson (Renita) of Dayton, OH; Tony Henderson (Sharae) of Duncanville, TX; one sister--Charlene Faye Brown of Midland,TX; 15 Grandchildren; 30 Great-grandchildren; 7 Great-great-grandchildren (Great-great-grandson, Jasir Banks, born in 2023, shares “Big Mama’s” birthdate: March 14); and a host of other relatives, dear friends and loved ones.