Adam David Henderson

In Loving Memory of Adam David Henderson February 7, 1981 – December 24, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and unexpected passing of Adam David Henderson, 43, of Moore, Oklahoma, on December 24th, 2024. Born on February 7th, 1981, in Xenia, Ohio, Adam grew up as a longtime resident of Fairborn, Ohio, where his magnetic personality left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Adam is survived by his loving wife, Julie Henderson; his treasured children, Annaka, Emma, and Kellan Henderson, who were his greatest pride and joy; their mother, Leanne Henderson; his mother, Paula Greene; brother, Andrew Henderson (Amber Henderson); aunt Sharon Adkins (Windell Adkins); cousins, Bill Graham and Beth Graham (Jeffrey Schetroma); mother-in-law, Marge Foust; sister-in-law, Mary Wagner (Mark Wagner); beloved nieces and nephews, Archer Henderson, Addalyn Henderson, Grace Wagner, and Isaac Wagner; and many other relatives and dear friends who all brought immense joy to his life. He was preceded in death by his father, Dale Henderson; stepfather, Robert Greene; and grandparents, Roscoe and Pauline Bell, all of Fairborn.

From a young age, Adam exhibited a natural talent for athletics, especially baseball, where he played for Babe Ruth and DABC travel teams throughout his youth. His imposing 6-foot stature as a 12-year-old often raised eyebrows and sparked questions about his age, leading his mother to humorously carry his birth certificate to games. Adam’s athleticism extended to the basketball court, where his distinctive prescription goggles may have invited skepticism—until he delivered a few commanding blocked shots that earned the respect of his opponents and cheers from the crowd.

After graduating from Fairborn High School in 1999, Adam pursued diverse academic interests, studying Archaeology at Hocking College, Business Administration at Sinclair Community College and Wright State University, and Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University. At Johnson & Wales, he achieved the remarkable distinction of walking onto the baseball team, excelling as a first baseman. 

Adam later returned to the baseball diamond as a coach, partnering with his childhood mentor, Elvin Barker. Together, they instilled values of perseverance, teamwork, and a lifelong love of the game in countless young athletes.

Professionally, Adam built a distinguished career in audio visual sales, beginning with roles at Best Buy and Cables To Go before advancing to serve as Midwest Regional Sales Manager for Legrand AV from 2007 to 2014. In 2014, he joined Exertis Almo as the Midwest Territory Manager, a role he held until 2021. His entrepreneurial spirit ultimately led to the founding of Trident Roofing & Construction, LLC in Oklahoma alongside Julie, where Adam took immense pride in providing exceptional service while building personal relationships with his clients.

Adam’s interests were as boundless and vast as his curiosity and zest for life. A lifelong Civil War enthusiast, he avidly read books, studied war maps, and followed expert blogs, often marveling at relics he dreamed of owning. One of his proudest achievements was qualifying for Jeopardy!, though he never received the final call to appear on the show. He found great joy in music, travel, the arts, cigars, fishing, and golf. A self-proclaimed foodie, he was relentless in his quest for the perfect fried chicken recipe and earned a reputation for his exceptional skill in smoking meats. A BBQ traditionalist, Adam took pride in using time-honored meat smoking techniques and never hesitated to share his opinions about those who opted for computerized methods. This sparked friendly debates and playful banter with friends and fellow BBQ enthusiasts.

An avid sports fan, Adam passionately supported the Minnesota Vikings, Cincinnati Reds, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Formula 1 Racing. This year’s College Football National Championship game will hold special meaning, highlighting the spirited rivalry he shared with his brother, a devout Notre Dame fan. Adam’s profound love for animals was evident in the unwavering devotion and daily affection he showed to his cherished cats—Penny, Hazel, Felix, Sherlock, and Lola—while fondly remembering his late cat, Tuna, and childhood dog, Milo. Each of his pets was affectionately bestowed with more nicknames than anyone could possibly keep track of, a reflection of the joy they each brought to his life.

Adam’s sharp wit, magnetic charm, and wicked sense of humor made him unforgettable. His radiant smile lit up every room he walked into, and his generosity and selflessness touched the lives of countless people. Always making time for others, he loved to inspire and enrich the lives of as many people as he could.

A celebration of Adam’s extraordinary life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Adam’s memory to SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center (8172 Washington Church Rd., Washington Township, OH 45458, or sicsa.org). This tribute reflects Adam’s deep compassion for animals and honors the memory of his beloved childhood dog, Milo.

Rest in peace, Adam. Your love, laughter, and light will forever remain in our hearts. You will always be deeply loved and remembered.