Tampa Mourns Passing of City Council Star Gwendolyn Henderson at 60

401 E. Oak Ave, Tampa, FL, USA - Tampa’s community is mourning the loss of Gwendolyn Henderson, a dedicated city council member who passed away at the age of 60 due to natural causes at her home. Henderson’s unexpected demise was confirmed by city officials and has left a profound void among friends, family, and her constituents in District 5, which encompasses downtown Tampa, Ybor City, and Tampa Heights. The Tampa Fire Rescue team quickly responded to an emergency call but unfortunately, despite their efforts, lifesaving measures fell short.

Born and raised in Tampa’s Carver City neighborhood, Henderson was a passionate advocate for education and community support. She graduated from Jefferson High School before pursuing higher education at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in education. Later, she obtained a Master’s degree in educational leadership from Saint Leo University, which set the stage for her long career in education with Hillsborough County Public Schools.

A Life of Service and Leadership

Henderson’s commitment to public service extended beyond her teaching role. She was recently elected to the Tampa City Council on May 1, 2023, and shortly thereafter took on the responsibility of chairing the Community Redevelopment Agency. This position allowed her to shape the future of her community and address pressing urban issues. Her leadership was also recognized with her appointment by Mayor Jane Castor as a board director for the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART).

In addition to her political and educational endeavors, Henderson owned the Black English bookstore located at 401 E. Oak Ave. This unique establishment focused on promoting works by Black authors and featured titles often banned in other venues, reflecting her dedication to diversity and representation in literature.

Henderson’s influence extended far and wide; her membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. showcased her commitment to sisterhood and social action. The Tampa Firefighters Local 754 expressed their condolences and recognized her passionate dedication to her role in public service. Such sentiments highlight the impact she had not only on her district but throughout the city as a whole.

Looking Ahead

The City of Tampa is already coordinating plans to honor Henderson’s legacy. In the coming days, details will be announced regarding tributes to celebrate her significant contributions. Additionally, her passing will inevitably lead to a special election to fill her seat, which has 15 months left in her term. This election follows the city charter’s requirements and will determine who will carry on her work and vision.

As her family and friends grieve, the community reflects on the remarkable life of Gwendolyn Henderson—a leader, educator, and advocate for her beloved city. Her journey from the classrooms of Hillsborough County to the halls of the city council is a testament to her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those she served.

The community will miss her deeply, and as they look forward to the future, there’s a clear sense that Gwendolyn Henderson’s legacy will continue to inspire many for years to come. Detailed plans for honoring her will soon be available, ensuring that her contributions are celebrated as an integral part of Tampa’s history.