Gerald Dean Henderson Jr., 62, of Wilmington, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026.

Gerald (Dean) was born and raised in Wilmington, North Carolina and was from the beginning surrounded by the people, places, and waters he came to love. He was the son of the late Gerald Dean Henderson Sr. and Mary Jeanette Sealey Henderson, father of his son Alex Henderson, and brother to Pam Lee and Glenda Gales.

Dean dedicated most of his working life to being a machinist. He found success working for both Interroll and General Electric locally in Wilmington. His dedication, experience, and skill eventually led him achieving a supervisory position in the General Electric aircraft production industry. He took pride in his work and always made sure to go above and beyond in all of his tasks.

Those who knew Dean will surely remember his outgoing personality, his friendliness, and the warmth he extended to others. He had a natural ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone and was able to make connections with those around him anywhere he went.

Dean loved spending time outdoors, especially the ocean waters around his home. He found happiness in spot fishing, shrimping, golfing, and simply spending time in and around the water, especially when he was able to do so alongside his father, Gerald Dean Henderson Sr. These were more than just hobbies to him, these were opportunities to enjoy life and spend time with those he cared about most.

Above all else, however, Dean was devoted to his family. He was a loving father to his son, Alex Henderson, and was always there when his family needed him. Whether supporting Alex at important moments in his life, helping care for a family member who was ill, or simply being present when he was needed, Dean could always be counted on. His family knew that they never had to face difficult times alone because Dean would be there. Every moment Dean spent with those he cared for was a treasure to him, and he held his memories of family very dear to his heart.

Dean will be deeply missed by his son, Alex Henderson; his sisters, Pam Lee and Glenda Gales; and the many relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives he touched throughout his 62 years.

His memory will live on in the stories shared, the friendships he made, and in the love and care he gave so freely to his family. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and of being there for the people who mattered most.

May he rest in peace.

A celebration of life will be 2-4:00 PM Sunday October 18, 2026 at Lee Farm 353 Old Whitfield Rd. Hampstead, NC 28443