Lillian Lela

Henson

Lillian Lela Henson, 89, of Noel, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

She was born on September 24, 1936, in Talala, Oklahoma, to the late George and Lily (Repschlaeger) Rott. She was the youngest of six children and was raised in the Talala community, where she also graduated from high school. On April 18, 1958, she was united in marriage to Leo Luther Henson, and together they built a life centered on hard work, family, and the land they loved. To this union, two sons were born.

Lillian lived a long and full life doing what she loved most, cattle farming and gardening. She was known for her strong work ethic and her steady presence, and she took great pride in the life she built on the farm. Even at age 89, she was still helping run the farm by working in the hayfield and checking cattle alongside her son, Gordon, and her beloved companion, Molly. Her days were filled with purpose, and she approached each one with determination and grace.

She also had a gift for hospitality and a heart that welcomed others. Lillian loved visiting with family, neighbors, and friends, and anyone who stopped by her home quickly learned that a simple hello often turned into a longer, cherished visit. She was a wonderful cook and was never without baked goods ready for anyone who came through her door. Her kitchen and her table were places of comfort, generosity, and warmth, and many will remember her for the kindness she showed so freely.

Her vegetable garden was another source of pride and joy. She planted enough to feed a small army, and she tended it with the same care and dedication she gave to everything else in her life. Whether she was working in the garden, caring for cattle, or sharing time with loved ones, Lillian found happiness in the simple and meaningful rhythms of country life. She especially treasured the companionship of her dog, Molly, who was always by her side.

Lillian is survived by her son, Gordon Henson and his wife, Diana, of Noel, Missouri; three grandchildren, Adam Henson and his wife, Kenzie, Christian Kerr and her husband, Brandon, and Aaron Stidham; six great-grandchildren, Hayden, Willow, Ryker, Rylee, Rynae, and Richard; and her beloved dog and companion, Molly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Luther Henson; a son, Michael Lee Henson; her parents, George and Lily Rott; and all five of her siblings, Fred Rott, James Rott, George Rott, Liz Paulus and Helen McGill.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026 at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri, with Pastor Galeon Smith officiating.  Burial will follow at Brush Creek Cemetery.  Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Adam Henson, Aaron Stidham, Colten Lawrence, Brandon Kerr, John Patterson and Jonathan Patterson.  The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are being directed to Brush Creek Cemetery Care Fund, c/o the funeral home.  Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.