Don Terrell Henderson, DDS

Don Terrell Henderson, a 61 year resident of Galveston, passed away on September 9, 2023 in Galveston, Texas. Don was born in Burnet, Texas on December 2, 1935 to parents Lillie Byrd Henderson and Lyell James Henderson, Sr. 

Don graduated from Burnet High School in Burnet, Texas in 1953. He attended Southwest Texas State University and The University of Texas Dental School in Houston, Texas. Upon graduation from dental school, Don served as a captain in the United States Air Force. He remained in the Air Reserve until his discharge in 1972. 

Don began practicing dentistry in 1962 and moved his family to Galveston shortly after Hurricane Carla. He and his wife Louise raised their three children on the island. Don was an avid runner and participated in many races winning his age group most of the time. On any given day, you could spot Don running on the seawall. 

At the age of 69, Don took a painting class at College of the Mainland. He had never painted anything in his life until that time and by the age of 70, he was considered a professional artist. Painting became Don’s passion and he enjoyed showing his art at various art shows in the Galveston Area. Don was a member of the Galveston Art League which not only provided a community for Don but also helped foster his development as an artist. 

Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Louise Henderson, and son, Terrell Henderson. He is survived by his daughters Kathy Grace and husband George Grace; Karon Henderson; his 6 grandchildren, Desitini Martin and husband Nick Martin; Trey Grace and wife Cassie Grace; Trevor Grace and partner John D. White Jr.; Scott Perkins and partner Anne Beth Halsvik; Megan Perkins; Lacey Henderson; his six great grandchildren, Grayson Martin; Macie Martin; Madison Martin; Levi Grace; Rowan Grace; Mille Gruene Halsvik and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members. 

A celebration of Don’s life and art will be held on Saturday, September 30th. The family would like his friends to join in this casual gathering to share memories and stories of Don. Houston Astro attire is welcome during this event. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s memory to The Galveston Art League 2117A, Postoffice Street, Galveston, Texas 77550.

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