Our hearts are deeply broken as we share the passing of Stephen Gary Henderson, who went home to be with the Lord on November 11, 2025. Stephen, 66, of Kingsport, Tennessee, stepped into eternal peace with the Savior he loved so deeply and served so faithfully.
Stephen was born on November 19, 1958, in Wilmington, Delaware, to the late Earl and Velva Osborne Henderson. He grew up surrounded by love, sharing a lifelong and unbreakable bond with his siblings, who were among the greatest blessings of his life. He treasured his sisters, Patsy Delp, Linda Foracker, and Debbie Conley, holding each of them close to his heart. He is now joyfully reunited in Heaven with his beloved brother, Richard Henderson, who preceded him in death.
Stephen's life was a testimony of faith, compassion, and service. His heart belonged to Jesus, and his greatest joy was speaking about the Lord, listening to scripture, and sharing conversations about the Word. He never hesitated to tell anyone just how good God is.
Stephen was a caregiver by God's calling. For nearly 30 years, he stood devoted beside his best friend, Lisa Isbell, walking beside her with unwavering loyalty and love, especially through the last 10 years of her health decline. He also lovingly cared for Lisa's brother, Charles, until his passing. Serving others wasn't just something Stephen did, it was who God created him to be, loving without hesitation and giving without limits.
A man of remarkable skill and craftsmanship, Stephen could fix or build nearly anything. With gifted hands, a brilliant mind, and unwavering patience, he could solve problems, repair what was broken, and create what was needed. His work was built with care, precision, and pride, leaving pieces of his legacy in countless homes and hearts.
Adventure lived in his soul. In his younger years, Stephen found freedom on the open road, riding his motorcycle across state lines, collecting memories, scenery, and stories along the way. He carried that same bold spirit throughout his life, never afraid of the journey ahead.
To know Stephen was also to know his faithful companion, his beloved dog, Bella. She was more than a pet, she was his comfort, his loyalty, and his constant sidekick. Their bond was undeniable, and she remains here carrying his love forward.
While Stephen never had biological children, he played a deeply meaningful role in the lives of Chelsea and Hollie Isbell. He loved them with an open heart and gave them unwavering compassion, guidance, laughter, and love, shaping a bond that will forever remain in their hearts.
Stephen held fast to the promise of Heaven, often speaking of the reunion that awaited him with Jesus, his brother Richard, and his beloved Lisa.
"To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord."
2 Corinthians 5:8
Stephen will be cremated. His sisters will hold a private graveside memorial, where he will be laid to rest with his parents. There will be no public service.
His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the hearts he cared for, and the faith he carried so beautifully.
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Matthew 25:23
You were so greatly loved and will be so deeply missed.
Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family, online condolences can be shared with the family on our website at www.trinitymemorialcenters.com.
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