On February 19, 1949, Joe Charles Henderson was born to the delight of his mother, Ms. Laura Mae Henderson-Bristol. He was all boy and loved all outdoor activities with his family and friends.  He loved playing football and anything physical.  He was a graduate of JRE Lee High School and some of his fondest memories were made there. He loved sharing those experiences and all the good times.  Joe Charles was an avid dancer and he delighted crowds with his rendition of "James Brown" and the swing.  In fact, dancing was one of the hobbies he enjoyed and he often said the movement kept him exercising and in good shape.

Joe Charles who was affectionately called "GateMouth" and/or "Gate", was a happy person and he made people laugh and look forward to being in his presence. He was a good man with a good heart and Gate just loved everybody. He was a peaceful person and loved positive energy with his siblings, cousins, and friends he grew up with like family.  He loved times with his softball teams and enjoyed a big softball reunion in March of this year.  With that big smile on his face most of the time it was evident and Gate would say, "I feel good."

This young man was a hard worker and like most young people during that time, he learned good work ethics in the fields of Hamilton County. He was never one to shy away from responsibility and one could count on Gate to do his part.  This work ethic followed him to adulthood and throughout his career being employed by Scruggs Company in Valdosta, Florida Rock and his current job as a fuel truck driver with Pilot Flying J.  His co-workers and those he met along the way proclaimed it was pleasure working with Joe Charles and simply getting to know him.  He let his light shine all while proclaiming "I feel good."

Joe Charles was such a wonderful, loving and dedicated father. He absolutely adored his children greatly and he did everything in his power to take care of them.  He took great pride in his grandchildren and watching them grow.  He was grateful for his offspring and other children in the family.  He loved being brother, granddaddy, uncle and cousin.  He was proud  and he proclaimed, "I feel good."

His signature was that cowboy hat, cowboy boots, belts, jeans and anything GATOR. Those of us who truly knew him, know that this is who he was.  He wore it and he wore it well.  When you saw him all decked out it in that big red truck, you already know…"I feel good."

Gate loved the Lord and he loved to be in service. He would come in and out of church when his work schedule would permit and sit in the back.  A few years ago he started sitting closer and closer to the front.  This year he began to talk about a change was coming.   He would stand to his feet and witness through singing and hand claps.  In June, Joe Charles connected with the Greater Poplar Springs Church Family and was baptized.  Oh what a joyous day.  He was serious and excited about the transformation.  Gate was so happy about this new walk and to have family,  loved ones and friends with him to witness such an important step in his life.  He voiced, "I feel good!"

Just a few weeks ago, sickness invaded his body for just a little while. Gate was such a good patient.  One who was thankful for every kindness, call, meal, and visit, and he never failed to say "thank you."  He was grateful for his care and his caregivers in such a loving surrounding. No matter the discomfort, the walking, the medications and other demands, he would say, "I feel good!"

Time is precious and it has its place in our lives. Time waits on no man and it is important to do all we can, while we can.  After a brief hospital stay, time took over in the life of Brother Joe Charles Henderson.  On Thursday, September 12, 2019, we can just imagine God whispered Gate's name because He knows all of his names.  It was time to forget about sickness and all of the cares of this world.  His work was finished here and it was time to answer the Master's call.  Gate answered and we know he proclaimed, "I feel good" in the arms of Jesus.

If Gate was here today, he would say remember me with a smile like the one I kept on my face. Remember the peace and the love I radiated daily.  Keep family close to heart.  Work hard to take care of each other and no matter what, I want you to know today, "I feel good."

Joe Charles was preceded in death by both mother and step-father. Jimmy Bristol, Sr; siblings – Mary Jean, Elizabeth and Jimmy Bristol, Jr.; grandson - Tarien Hughes.

He leaves precious memories with his loving and caring children: Charles (Patricia) Henderson of Lawton, OK, Latrice S. Henderson of Tampa, FL, Amanda Henderson, Kianna Henderson, Gemica Henderson, Cody (Yolanda) Henderson, Tameka Henderson and Tamara Henderson all of Jasper, FL.  Supportive and caring Siblings:  Lunette Mosely of Orlando, FL, Joann (Albert) Paul of St, Pete, FL, and Lewis Henderson of Jasper, FL.  24 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; A special devoted and compassionate friend:  Stephanie Campbell; a host of precious nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and sorrowing friends.