OBITUARY: Robert "Lefty" Henderson, 77, of Salem

Robert “Lefty” James Henderson, age 77 years, died Monday afternoon January 20, 2014, at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers. Born and raised in Salem, Robert was the son of the late Harold J. and Esther D. (Leahy) Henderson. In high school, Robert served as president of his class and captain of the football team. He graduated Salem High School from the class of 1955. Upon completing his education, he entered the Air Force and served his country during peacetime. While in the Air Force, stationed in Morocco, Robert had the opportunity to continue playing football; and played in the presence of the King of Morocco.

After Robert returned from serving his country, he attended Burdett School of Business. Not long after graduating he became the proprietor of his own company, Parts Warehouse Inc. in Beverly, MA. He worked there for 30 years, retiring in 1989.

Robert had many interests and served his local community in many ways. He was Commissioner of the Beverly Airport during the 1970’s and a Trustee at Glen Urquhart School. He was an avid boater and was a member of the Palmer Cover Yacht Club for many years. He will be greatly missed by those who knew him. He was a great guy, doting husband, super dad and a fantastic brother.

Robert is survived by his wife Mary E. (Doran) Henderson, his two daughters, Lisa Gallagher of Boston, and Lauren Henderson-Pierce and her husband Ted of Beverly; a brother James E. Henderson of Beverly, two sisters Ann (Valenzi) Dwight and her husband Philip of Salem, Mary C. Lyons of Sierra Vista, AZ; four grandchildren, Caitlin and Erin Gallagher of Boston, Molly and Jake Pierce of Beverly, MA; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Joyce M. Miller.

Robert’s Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at St. John the Baptist Church, 28 Saint Peter Street, Salem at 11:00 a.m. Visiting hours will be held at Murphy Funeral Home on Friday, 85 Federal Street, corner of North Street in Salem on January 24, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Burial will be private. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Care Dimensions, 75 Sylvan St., Ste 102B, Danvers, MA 01923. For additional information or on line guest book please call 978 744 0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.