Meet my dad, James Henson, Father of the Century

by Melissa Noll

Every year I have watched as young children nominate their dads. However, this year I decided why not, it doesn’t have to be a new dad or a young child describing their dad. So, I decided to write about MY dad!

James Henson stands with his daughters Melissa Noll (left) and Kristin Payne (right). User provided photo.

Most people in the community knew my mom, Garnett Henson. She worked at the school for a number of years. When she retired, she was librarian of the Middle School. Unfortunately, in 2009 she passed away unexpectedly. My dad held strong for my sister and me. Then just a few short weeks later, my grandma passed away, so my dad lost his wife and his mother in a very short period. However, during this time he stayed strong.

His older brother and sister-in-law needed help. He didn’t think twice taking basically a suitcase full of clothes and moved to Arizona where he took care of his brother and sister-in-law who both had dementia and other ailments until they passed away. Never complaining–Oh, and did I mention that he was battling prostate cancer that had metastasized into his bones? And did I mention that he NEVER complained. That is my dad.

My dad even now with stage four cancer, COPD and other ailments would give the shirt off his back to anyone. He may have weakening bones; but his heart and attitude are the strongest of anyone I know!

I would ask that you honor my Dad for Father’s Day – and really, he should be Father of the Year or maybe the Century.