Edwin Lewis Henderson

Edwin Lewis “Rabbit” Henderson, 68, died Saturday afternoon, September 20th at Johnston Willis Hospital following a brief illness. He was surrounded in the loving embrace of his family.
His father, James V. Henderson, and his mother, Louise B. Henderson, preceded him in death. He leaves his wife of 44 years, Victoria (Pallay) Henderson; his daughter, Amy H. Ernst; his son in law, Matthew J. Ernst; his son, James J. Henderson; daughter in law, Brooke S. Henderson; his daughter, Katie H. Cameron; son in law, Ben P. Cameron; his sister, Gilda H. Dark; his brother, James V. Henderson, Jr., and five grandchildren. Born in Petersburg, on June 10, 1946, Edwin was a lifelong resident of Colonial Heights. After receiving his diploma from Colonial Heights High School in 1964, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served his country for four years including one active tour of duty in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant in 1969.Upon his return to Virginia, he met his wife, Victoria, “Vicki” and they were married in March of 1970. Edwin joined C&P Telephone, Co. (now Verizon) where he had a successful career, retiring after thirty-three years of service in 2002. Edwin was also very active in his community. He served as Little League baseball commissioner and volunteered for many years as a Firefighter, rising through his seventeen years to the rank of Volunteer Assistant Fire Chief. Edwin was an avid sports enthusiast and devoted fan of UVA Football, the Baltimore Orioles and the Washington Redskins. Throughout his life he also enjoyed outdoor pursuits including hunting and fishing and spending time at the beach, and in recent years gardening, where he grew the most amazing tomatoes and peppers. Edwin’s greatest joy and pride in life was his family. He was most happy with all of his family and grandchildren around him. He lived his life by his favorite motto “there is no dress rehearsal, we do not get a do over, so make this one count”. The family will receive friends and family at JT Morris Funeral Home in Petersburg from 6:00-8:00 Wednesday September 24, 2014. A service will be held at the same location on September 25 at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The American Cancer Society. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss