Gary Alexander Henderson, 75, of Panama City passed away Thursday, January 22, 2026 surrounded by family after a long illness. Gary was born in Tallahassee to Alexander Henderson and Eloise Waldorff Barber. He was the oldest of five children. He enlisted in the US Army to proudly serve his country in 1970. He attended basic training at Fort Jackson, SC. He transferred to Ft. Leanard Wood, Missouri for advanced individual training as a Pioneer then to become a Combat Engineer. During his training he was promoted to Sgt 26 March 1971. His next assignment was to Camp Eschborn, Germany on 25 May 1971. Gary greatly enjoyed his time there exploring the country when on leave. He was always sharing memories about his adventures to castles often abandoned where he would camp for the night. He even shared the misadventures as he was learning the language. Gary was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Expert Marksmanship for the M-16 and the M-14. He was honorably discharged 1 June 1976.

Gary’s career spanned across jobs in the trucking industry, working drag lines, heavy machinery and ultimately into the selling of oil and lubricants. He worked for RK Allen Oil for 20 years and never truly felt like he worked a day in his life. He was well respected in his job and the community. He never knew a stranger.

Gary was a member of the Harry Jackson Masonic Lodge No 314 where he became a past master. He was a member of York Rite and a 32nd Degree Mason in the Scottish Rite. He also became a Shriner in the Shaddai Shrine. He received his 25 year pin. He was an active member in the lodge and truly enjoyed teaching others the work.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents: Alexander Henderson and Eloise Waldorff-Barber and his son James David Henderson, whom he truly missed. He is survived by his son, Allen Henderson and his daughter Belinda Thompson (Matthew); sisters Susan Barfield, Gaylan Henson (John), and Darlene Tolbert (Dewayne); brother David Lee Henderson; Niece Shelby Temples; Nephews Freddy Barfield (Shantel), Blane Barfield (Morgan), Evan Henson (Donna), Caleb Tolbert, Jacob Tolbert (Jesse), and Brandon Henderson (Logan); 9 great nephews, and 3 great nieces. He truly loved his very large family. He also enjoyed his daily bible study. He loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 2 pm in the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1-2 pm prior to the service.