Sumpter Hiram Henderson, 81, of Vero Beach, passed away on April 18.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Judy; sons Hiram Jr. (Brenda), Chris (Tara), and daughter Sandy (Bill). He had eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
After graduating from Vero Beach High School as co-valedictorian in 1952, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education at the University of Florida and a Master’s Degree from the University of Mississippi. He also served for two years as an artillery officer in the U.S. Army.
Henderson taught at Vero Beach High School for 35 years and in 1984 was Indian River County Teacher of the Year. In 1984 he was the first classroom teacher to receive the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Florida.
While teaching at Vero Beach High School, he started the Red Raiders football program and he chaired the high school’s science department for many years. He was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church where he served as a Sunday school teacher, choir member and deacon. He was a diehard follower of the Florida Gator’s athletic programs.
The service will be held at First Baptist Church of Vero Beach on April 30 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Scholarship Fund at First Baptist Church of Vero Beach. Online condolences may be made at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.
