Thomas Joseph Henshaw, 87, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, in Orange Park, Florida. Born on January 9, 1938, in the Town of Denmark, New York, Thomas lived a full and hardworking life marked by family bonds and a love for the outdoors.
Thomas was married to Virginia Ann (Wilkinson) Henshaw for 62 years until her passing in 2022.
Together they built a large family that included six children: four sons—Russell (Sue), Scott (Marlyn), Jeffrey (Renee), and Mark (Charleen/Char)—and two daughters, Rhonda, who passed away in 2023, and a daughter DawnMarie. He was also blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him joy sharing his fishing stories or watching westerns with them. Telling them who all the Cowboys were.
Thomas was the youngest of his nine siblings.
In recent months, Thomas formed a particularly meaningful connection with his great-grandson Blake Schmidt. Their time together created an unbreakable bond that brought comfort and healing to both generations. These moments were cherished deeply by Thomas and will be remembered fondly by those who witnessed their special relationship.
Thomas worked as a crane operator in New York for 30 years before relocating to Florida in 1990. Retirement in Florida allowed him to embrace his passion for the outdoors. He found daily purpose in yard work and landscaping—forever bagging leaves and tending to his yard with care and pride. Being outside brought him peace and fulfillment.
Among those who held a special place in Thomas's heart was his daughter-in-law Charleen "Char" with whom he shared a unique and treasured bond. Though he was known for being strong-willed, he always listened to Char—a testament to the deep respect and affection he had for her.
His loyal dog Cocoa was a constant companion whose presence brought comfort and joy. Cocoa will surely miss the quiet companionship they shared.
Thomas also held dear his nephew Johnny Besaw, whose thoughtful gestures—whether sending gumdrops or treats for Cocoa—These small acts of kindness brightened Thomas's days and reminded him of the love and respect that Johnny had for him.
Thomas Joseph Henshaw leaves behind a legacy rooted in hard work, to family, and the simple joys found under open skies. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
Thomas was married to Virginia Ann (Wilkinson) Henshaw for 62 years until her passing in 2022.
Together they built a large family that included six children: four sons—Russell (Sue), Scott (Marlyn), Jeffrey (Renee), and Mark (Charleen/Char)—and two daughters, Rhonda, who passed away in 2023, and a daughter DawnMarie. He was also blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him joy sharing his fishing stories or watching westerns with them. Telling them who all the Cowboys were.
Thomas was the youngest of his nine siblings.
In recent months, Thomas formed a particularly meaningful connection with his great-grandson Blake Schmidt. Their time together created an unbreakable bond that brought comfort and healing to both generations. These moments were cherished deeply by Thomas and will be remembered fondly by those who witnessed their special relationship.
Thomas worked as a crane operator in New York for 30 years before relocating to Florida in 1990. Retirement in Florida allowed him to embrace his passion for the outdoors. He found daily purpose in yard work and landscaping—forever bagging leaves and tending to his yard with care and pride. Being outside brought him peace and fulfillment.
Among those who held a special place in Thomas's heart was his daughter-in-law Charleen "Char" with whom he shared a unique and treasured bond. Though he was known for being strong-willed, he always listened to Char—a testament to the deep respect and affection he had for her.
His loyal dog Cocoa was a constant companion whose presence brought comfort and joy. Cocoa will surely miss the quiet companionship they shared.
Thomas also held dear his nephew Johnny Besaw, whose thoughtful gestures—whether sending gumdrops or treats for Cocoa—These small acts of kindness brightened Thomas's days and reminded him of the love and respect that Johnny had for him.
Thomas Joseph Henshaw leaves behind a legacy rooted in hard work, to family, and the simple joys found under open skies. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Thomas Jospeh Henshaw, please visit our flower store.
Thomas Jospeh Henshaw's Guestbook
Visits: 17
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors