US Coast Guard veteran who enjoyed fly fishing
PEABODY — Ralph “Jim” Henderson, formerly of Melrose and Mashpee, died peacefully in Peabody on September 24 at the age of 87. Jim was born on December 12, 1935, in Winthrop to William and Hannah (McMann) Henderson. He was raised in Melrose, attended Melrose Public Schools and lived in Melrose for most of his life. He would go on to graduate from New Hampton Prep and then graduate from Northeastern University with a bachelor’s degree in 1964.
Jim served honorably in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1955 to 1959 and later went on to work in the insurance business. He was a man of many hobbies and talents. He loved fishing, particularly fly fishing. Jim was also a talented cook and baker and his Thanksgiving pies were always a big hit. Visitors to his home were invited to share in his enthusiasm and learn about his antique beer stein collection. He’ll always be remembered as a dedicated husband and father.
Jim was the beloved husband of Maryfaith (Sullivan) Henderson of Peabody, formerly of Melrose. He was the loving father of Kathryn A. Henderson of Cambridge. Brother of the late William A. Henderson and brother-in-law of Audrey Henderson.Uncle of Amy Bergomi and William A. Henderson.
Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on October 13 from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the Gately Funeral Home on October 14 at 10 a.m. Interment to follow the service at Puritan Lawn Cemetery, 185 Lake St., Peabody. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the Melrose Public Library, 263 W. Foster St., Melrose, MA 02176. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit gatelyfh.com.