VAESP salutes the memory of Sylvia Henderson, a great educational leader, VAESP board member, past president, and advocate for children at the local, state, and federal level
Sylvia Jennings Henderson, 69, of Charlottesville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 21, 2012, at a local hospital after battling cancer.
She is survived by her husband, Glenwood; her son, David and his wife, Alena; her brother, William W. Jennings Jr. and his wife, Sandra Sue; and three grandchildren Justin, Andrew and Alexander Henderson. She was born on November 8, 1942, in Norfolk, Virginia and was raised in South Boston, Virginia. She graduated from Halifax County High School in 1961. After receiving a degree from Longwood College in 1964 and took her first teaching position in Danville. She received her Master’s in school administration at the University of Virginia in 1974. In 1976, she went to Charlottesville with her family and began a 32 year career with Albemarle County Schools. During her tenure, she served as principal of Woodbrook Elementary, Agnor-Hurt Elementary and Meriwether Lewis Elementary schools.
Sylvia retired in 2008 to enjoy some travel, her grandchildren and one of her other loves - playing bridge. She continued serving children through her various roles with the Virginia Association of Elementary Principals (VAESP) including state president. She promoted educational causes at the state and national level and locally with pre-school projects. She also was involved as a mentor in teacher and administrator training at the University of Virginia. A memorial service will be conducted 11 a.m. Friday, January 27, 2012, at the Teague Funeral Home chapel with the Reverend Al Horton officiating. Interment will be private. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, January 26, 2012, at the Teague Funeral Home. Friends may sign the guest register at teaguefuneralhome.com.