It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gerald Henderson, affectionately known as Jay to his friends and family. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family just shy of his 87th birthday after a short, brave battle with pancreatic cancer.
Jay is survived by his beloved wife, Gail (Hunter) of 58 years; his twin daughters, Janis Bergeron (Chris) and Janey Leslie (Dan); his adoring grandchildren, Logan and Connor Bergeron and Alexandra and Victoria Leslie; his sister, Barbara (Malcolm) Rogers, and his brother-in-law, Lee Hunter (Bonnie). Jay will be sadly missed by many nieces and nephews. He was a great son and was pre-deceased in death by his parents, Gerald Sr. (Jay) and Edna Henderson; and his brother-in-law, Carl Hunter (Stella).
Jay spent his entire life in Wallaceburg, dedicating 43 years to the Glass Factory. A true sports enthusiast, Jay’s love for the game was evident, especially as a devoted fan of the Detroit Tigers, seldom missing a game. His passion for baseball extended to annual trips to ballparks across the U.S.
Golf was another of Jay’s cherished pastimes, and he delighted in sharing golf outings with Gail and their close friends.
However, nothing brought Jay greater joy than being a grandfather. He took immense pride in watching his grandsons play hockey, baseball, and golf, while he enthusiastically supported his granddaughters in their pursuits of skating, horseback riding, dance recitals, plays, and gymnastics.
Jay was a remarkably intelligent man with an impressive memory, who read the newspaper from cover to cover. His loved ones were continually amazed by his ability to answer Jeopardy! questions correctly, night after night.
Following his wishes, cremation will take place and a private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eric F. Nicholls Funeral Home (639 Elgin St. In Wallaceburg 519-627-2861)
An expression of sympathy, donations to Chatham-Kent Hospice (https://chathamkenthospicefoundation.com/donations) may be left at the funeral home.
