Maurice Henderson, 92, passed away on Friday, April 14, 2023, in Sebring, Florida. Mr. Henderson was born in Lemon Grove, Florida on January 9, 1931, to Uel and Beulah Henderson.

In 1958 Mr. Henderson married the love of his life Betty Joyce Spears of Wauchula.

Mr. Maurice earned the respect of all who knew him. His love of the Lord, love of family, love of community, honesty, integrity and strong work ethic was an inspiration to all. He loved raising cattle and baling and selling hay to his many loyal customers.

He was a devout Christian man who served his church, country, and community well. He was a deacon at New Hope Baptist Church, where he also served as church treasurer for 34 years. He served his country as a sergeant in the Marine Corps from 1950 to 1953.

After his time in the service he worked as a livestock inspector for several years during the screwworm eradication program. Mr. Maurice worked alongside his brother Harold as a Veterinarian assistant for several years.

He served 16 years as a Hardee County Commissioner, during which he was instrumental in the development of Hardee Lakes Park. He served 55 years on the Board of Directors at Peace River Electric Cooperative, and 17 years on the Seminole Electric Board of Trustees. During his tenure, he assisted in securing and building the Seminole Electric power plant in Hardee county. His other civic involvement includes being the president of the Hardee County Cattlemen's Association and treasurer for the Hardee County Fair Association. His involvement in these organizations led to the relocation and development of the current fairgrounds and recreational complex. He was an avid cattleman, rancher and outdoorsman who worked hard and led by example.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty Joyce Henderson of Wauchula; son, Gary Henderson (Leona); son, Scott Henderson (Melanie); 5 grandchildren: Sarah McClenithan of Brandon, Travis McClenithan (Amber) of Wauchula, Jake, Katie, and Kale Henderson; great-granddaughter, Sloane McClenithan, all of Wauchula; sister-in-laws: Dorothy Henderson and Virginia Henderson, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Evelyn Landress (J.T.) of Avon Park; brothers: Harold Henderson (Margaret)of Wauchula, Mitchell Henderson of Wauchula, Robert "Bobby" Henderson of Avon Park, and Russell Henderson (Janice)of Moore Haven.

Visitation will be held Thursday , April 20 , 2023 from 2 :00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at New Hope Baptist Church of Wauchula with funeral services to follow at 3 :00 p.m . Rev. Kevin Roberts, Pastor Rod Cannon, and Mr. Marcus Shackelford will be officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Mr. Henderson to New Hope Baptist Church or Good Shepherd Hospice Foundation, 863-583-3641; 863-559-2944; Creamerp@chaptershealth.org. Arrangements by Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home, Wauchula, Florida.