Sarah Jane Henderson

Sarah Jane Henderson was born May 9, 1923, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, the daughter of Robert and Bertha (Shank) Thaxton. She graduated from high school in Las Cruces in 1940, and received her Bachelor's degree from New Mexico State University in 1944. Sarah Jane married Alden Henderson at St. Paul's Methodist Church on January 19, 1947. During World War II (1944 - 1945), Sarah Jane worked for the State Department Voice of America, then she taught Junior High social studies classes in Las Cruces. After their marriage, Sarah Jane and Alden moved to Alden home near Solen, North Dakota, where they operated a cattle ranch. Between 1948 and her retirement in 1981, Sarah Jane fulfilled many roles in Solen School, including teacher of English and history, librarian, and principal. Sarah Jane was active in her community and her church. She was a member of the Solen school board from 1947 until 1977; the American Legion Auxiliary; and Prairie Hustlers Homemakers. She belonged to the Solen United Church of Christ, and served as a lay minister for many years. Sarah Jane was an active member of the Democratic Party, serving as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in Atlanta, Georgia in 1988. Two years following her husband's death in 1995, Sarah Jane moved to Fairfield, Iowa, to be near her daughter Sally. There she was a member of the United Methodist Church, the Fairfield Retired Teachers Association, and the Solitaires Club. Sarah Jane and Sally enjoyed many activities together, including an unforgettable trip to Europe. In 2003, Sarah Jane moved to Grand Forks, North Dakota, to be near some of her grandchildren. While in Grand Forks she attended St. Mark's Lutheran Church, and enjoyed numerous elementary school and middle school orchestra concerts. She made many lasting friendships at Valley 4000. Sarah Jane made an impression wherever she went. She was outgoing, independent, and determined. She was a woman of tremendous faith and courage, who faced life's challenges head-on, and kept a positive attitude in adversity. She enjoyed music and books, and adored her grandsons. Sarah Jane will be deeply missed by her children and grandchildren: Sally Henderson and her husband Doug Mackey of Fairfield, Iowa; Bob and Cynthia Henderson and their sons Robert and Sean of Mt. Calm, Texas; and Tom and Ann Henderson of Grand Forks, ND and their sons James and Bryan. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Bertha Thaxton, and her husband Alden Henderson.