Wilma Charlene Henderson, 87, of Odon, Indiana, passed away with family by her side, on May 14, 2023 at Ketcham Memorial Center in Odon. She was born on September 4, 1935 in Grayville, Illinois to Charles W. and Flossie (Robinson) Nickolaus. Charlene was married to Paul W. Henderson for 54 years before his passing in 2014.
Charlene was a retired Registered Nurse and enjoyed helping others. She always tried to leave everyone she knew in a better place.
Family left to cherish the memory of Charlene include: one son, Nick (Sally) Henderson; two daughters, Nancy (Doug Taylor) Henderson and Jodi (Hamdija) Ajanovic; grandchildren, Drew Henderson, Sabrina Henderson and Oscar Ajanovic, and many nieces and nephews.
Charlene was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Henderson, her parents, Charles and Flossie Nickolaus and sister, Marilyn Justice.
Charlene dedicated over 60 years of her life to the healthcare needs of the Daviess County community. She started her career at NSWC Crane then transitioned to private practice with Dr. Don Sears with whom she worked with for 18 years. She was always first to an emergency, first to lend a helping hand, but last to leave a good party.
She believed in giving back to the community and she contributed in many ways. One being the RSVP children’s eye program that she helped to grow from a few grade schools in Daviess County to include surrounding Counties servicing over 1,500 kids a year. In addition to the expanded testing, she worked with the local Lyons Clubs to procure free eye glasses for the kids in need. She also strongly believed in the Older Hoosier program where she provided in-home healthcare and resources to help prolong the amount of time her patients could stay in their own homes.
Charlene felt strongly that the elderly should be treated with love and respect, which led her to become involved with Ketcham Memorial in many capacities. She served as Director of Nursing for many years then served on the Board of Directors. She raised funds through her annual golf tournament and built elaborate doll houses for auction where the funds were used to purchase the first activities bus.
As co-owner of House of Crafts with Ann Kelsey she brought her love of the arts to Odon by providing art classes in assorted mediums. Where her children can now write in calligraphy, produce macrame, string art, and latch-hook rugs blind folded.
Charlene loved nothing more than to spend time with her family and friends, when we say “spend time” we actually mean pulling pranks and laughing until tears came. She was a great listener and lent her ear with compassion and always without judgment.
Funeral services to honor the life of Charlene will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 18, 2023 at Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon with Micah Stephen officiating. Charlene will be laid to rest in Walnut Hill Cemetery in Odon.
Family and friends may call from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday and from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM on Thursday at the funeral home. A Nursing Honor Guard Service will be at 6:30 PM on Wednesday.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ketcham Memorial Center or American Cancer Society. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.mengfuneralhome.com.
