Tommy Henderson , age 88, of Columbus and formerly of Elwood, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Four Seasons Retirement Community in Columbus after a short illness. Born on June 15, 1937, in Elwood to Louis Henderson and Helen (Fox) Webb, Tom was a lifelong learner with a deep passion for education. He graduated from Wendell L. Willkie High School in 1955 and went on to earn both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in education from Ball State Teacher's College.  Tom devoted his life to teaching, shaping the minds and lives of countless students over more than five decades. He spent 42 years teaching elementary education at Bartholomew Consolidated Schools, and continued to inspire learners at Ivy Tech and IUPUI, as well as through Developmental Services summer camps. Tom was especially gifted in teaching mathematics, always eager to share his love of learning with others.

On June 13, 1965, Tom married his beloved Sue Ann Fitzpatrick. Together, they shared over 57 years of love, partnership, and adventure, beginning with a memorable two-month honeymoon exploring Europe. Above all, Tom was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished every moment spent with his family, especially at Lakes Wawasee and Webster. Tom was a member of First United Methodist Church of Columbus.  His joy for travel and his fondness for musicals—particularly show tunes with Ethel Merman reflected his zest for life.  Tom's legacy endures in his family and the many students whose lives he touched. He will be fondly remembered for his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering dedication to teaching and caring for others. His family finds comfort in knowing he is reunited in heaven with his beloved Sue.

Tom is survived by 2 sons, William L. "Bill" (Melissa) Henderson of Greenwood, and James T. "Jim" (Edwina) Henderson of Zionsville; sister, Ann Webb of Elwood; 5 grandchildren, Megan Henderson, Erik Henderson, Leif Henderson, Ben Henderson, and Colin Henderson; 2 sisters-in-law, Bev Fitzpatrick, and Linda Fitzpatrick; and several nieces and nephews.  Tom is preceded in death by his parents; paternal grandparents, Dillard and Minnie Henderson; and his wife, Sue Ann Henderson in 2023.

A memorial service celebrating Tom's life and legacy will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Pastor Howard Boles of Columbus United Methodist Church officiating.  Burial will follow in Elwood City Cemetery.  A visitation for family and friends will be held from 12:00 to 1:00 pm prior to the service on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Wheeler Mission through the funeral home.  Online condolences and stories may be shared with the family at copherfeslermay.com.