Carmon Pershing Henderson Jr., 82, of Fort Stockton, passed away on Jan. 5 in his home surrounded by his wife and children.

Carmon was born in Van Horn to Carmon and Lucille Henderson on Nov. 22, 1940. He grew up on the X Ranch and attended Van Horn High School where he excelled at football, basketball as well as track and field. Kraut met his dance partner for life, Virginia, and they were married Nov. 23, 1961, and went on to raise four children who were along for the ride and countless adventures. He went on to attend college and play football at Angelo State University. He later transferred to Sul Ross State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Arts in 1967. Upon graduation, Carmon

began teaching and coaching in Fort Stockton while moonlighting for local ranchers for the next seven years. In 1974, Carmon left teaching and returned to his true passion, ranching. His love for being a cowboy was clearly visible in his work. He became widely known as one of the best all-around cowboys in West Texas, which was his claim to fame for the remainder of his life. Carmon’s influence and mentorship was wide-reaching and continues to influence many throughout West Texas. Carmon’s passion for his family and ranching are just a couple of small pieces of his capabilities and contributions during his time with us. Those close to him will always remember him as a multifaceted and brilliant man that influenced and had a great impact on numerous lives.

Carmon is preceded in death by his parents, Carmon Pershing Henderson Sr., and Lucille Henderson Garlick, and sister Minnie Koenig.

Carmon is survived by his wife of 61 years, Virginia Henderson, children: Don Henderson and Christy, Kyleen Henderson, Laurie Henderson, and John D Henderson and Maureen, grandchildren: Cody Henderson and Ashley, Kayla Williams, Ashton Granado, Cyle Henderson and Melissa, Kathryn Williams, Jace Williams, and Jarhett Henderson, a herd of great-grandchildren: Logan, Harper, Carter, Morgan, Jake, James, Callan, CJ, and soon to be baby Andrew. Carmon is also survived by his brother Jody “Pat” Henderson.

A celebration of life will be held at 3 PM on Saturday, Jan. 21, at the Pecos County Civic Center in Fort Stockton.

Carmon’s family would like to extend a special thanks to Gary “Big Ed” Edwards, Bill Vasquez, John Johns, George Luera, Paul Henderson, and the Hospice Care Team from Pecos County Memorial: Veronica, Adrianna, and Elva.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carmon Henderson Memorial Scholarship fund at First National Bank of Fort Stockton, PCMH Home Hospice.

Arrangements are entrusted to Heritage Funeral Home of the Big Bend in Fort Stockton. If you would like to send your condolences to the family, you may do so by signing his guestbook at www. heritagefuneralhomeofthebigbend. com.