Daniel H. Henderson

Daniel Harold Rudolph Henderson was born August 30, 1923 in New York City to Samuel and Ruth Henderson. His father was born in St. Kitts, B. W. I. His mother was born in Florence, South Carolina. He was one of eleven children; six died very early in life. He grew up primarily as one of five children. He first joined the church of his family, St. Cyprian of West 63 Street in Manhattan. The family moved to the area of St. Mark’s Methodist Church where they became members. The war interrupted his plans to enter New York College of Music, after graduating from Seward Park High School. He served as a Cpl. in the U. S. Army, seeing service in the China, Burma and the Indian theater of war until his honorable discharge in 1946. After the war he did manage to attend the New York College of music. Daniel had a long and successful career with the U. S. Government, serving his last eleven years as a postal supervisor, before retiring in 1981. Daniel was a very gifted pianist. During the years he kept a steady stream of musical engagements, building a reputation among many accomplished professional artists. One of his favorite assignments was an unusually long engagement at the Holiday Inn in Nanuet, NY, where he worked under the leadership of Sonny Oliver. He also enjoyed playing for numerous private clubs in New York City. When they were young, Daniel and Samuel sang for years with the Harlem YMCA Chorale. Dan was an active member and supporter of the National Alliance of Postal and Federal Employees. He served as legislative chairman of the AARP, and an active member of the Democratic Coalition of Elected Office Holders. He took special pride in his membership in the 369th Veterans’ Association. After moving to Teaneck, NJ, Dan met Linelda Beach, a New York resident. They were married on July 21, 1959. They had a unique but loving relationship. After attending Galilee United Methodist Church for a number of years, he decided to become a member in 1994. He became an active member, offering to serve in any capacity, and offering his musical talents whenever asked. He was honored in 1993 by the United Methodist Women for his work at the Recycling depot. Pickups and delivery of food to the CFA and help at UMW Flea Markets and entertainment at church activities. He was an active member of the United Methodist Men. Daniel’s personal philosophy was, “Take time to laugh. Laughter is the music of the soul.” He is survived by his wife Linelda, his brother Samuel Wesley Henderson, and a number of cousins, nieces and grand nieces. Friends and family are invited for visitation on Tuesday from 10 – 11 AM at Galilee United Methodist Church, 325 Genesee Avenue, Englewood, NJ 07631. A funeral service will begin at 11 AM. Interment to follow at Fair Lawn Memorial Cemetery, Fair Lawn, NJ.

Daniel H. Henderson

June 20, 2013