Robert William Henderson, Jr. was born on August 13, 1962 in Philadelphia, PA to Robert and Virginia Henderson, Sr.
With his father being a member of the Air Force, Robert lived in different parts of the world. In 1974, the family returned to Philadelphia, PA where he continued his grade school education. Affectionately known as “Spank” or “Spanky” since childhood, he graduated from Bishop McDevitt High School in the spring of 1980 and later completed some college studies at both Howard University and Girard College.
A year later, Robert began his professional career as Supervisor of the Purchasing Department at Industrial Valley Bank. Known for his diligence and efficiency, he easily climbed the corporate ladder, maintaining a position of leadership. He was most proud of his 13 year tenure at Lenox Crystal and China.
Wanting to start a family of his own, Robert knew his long time friend Yvette would soon become his wife. They wed in the spring of 1986, and their union produced four children. He was a loving spouse and very involved father in his children’s activities and sports. As a coach or Team Dad, he was known for being a guiding light for young men in his community on and off the field.
As a faithful child of God he always made sure to have a church home. He was a member of New Covenant Church, and dedicated his life to Christ as an active member of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church.
With the advancement of his career, Robert relocated to Land O’ Lakes, FL in December 2013. The family joined him in August 2014, where they found their new church home at Bible Based Fellowship Church in Tampa, FL.
With his new life taking shape in Florida, Robert made it clear he would remain a lifelong fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and other Philly sports teams.
His loyalty rang true as he was always there for family and friends. Robert was open-hearted, kind and generous to all.
Our beloved Robert departed this life on Monday, December 2, 2024.
Robert is survived by his wife Yvette; children, Robert III (Whitney), Éshe, Vincenzo and Salvatore; grandson, Roman; his parents Virginia and Robert Sr.; bonus sons Tyrone and Randy; bonus grandchildren Ameerah, Noah, Amani and Payton; and a host of other loving family members and friends.
Robert was predeceased by his younger brother Kevin.
Arrangements entrusted to Aaron A. Cooper Mortuary
Bible Based Fellowship Church
4811 Ehrlich Road
Tampa, FL 33624
Dan Cassidy
December 12, 2024, 8:32 pm
I think Rob was one of the first people I met my first day working at Lenox back in June 1992. Rob always had a smile on his face. At the time I was hired as the credit manager and Rob and I were tasked with creating the very first in-house collections team, contacting past two customers. Rob trained the collection team to have a customer first focus on these calls to ensure they were happy and satisfied with their purchase remind them that they could be return the items for a refund. If it weren’t for Rob, the launch would not have been half as successful as it was.
I also knew Rob‘s dad, as he also worked at Lenox. To Mr. Henderson, thank you for raising such a fine man. And, to all of Rob’s loved ones, I am so sad for your loss.
Sincerely,
Dan Cassidy
Chris Sanders
December 13, 2024, 12:55 pm
I had the privilege of working under Robert Henderson at Capital Bridge during the fall and winter of 2024. In that time, I not only had the opportunity to work with one of the best supervisors I’ve ever encountered but also had the honor of getting to know a truly compassionate and thoughtful individual.
Robert always made sure the team was doing well—not just in terms of work performance, but also as individuals. He genuinely cared about us as people. For example, he treated the entire team to pizza one day, showing his appreciation in small but meaningful ways. When I didn’t have a car because it broke down multiple occasions he asked me how my car was doing if I had an alternative means of transportation.
He was just a thoughtful guy.
He had a great laugh too! Our training class at the call center was full of “interesting personalities.” He sat right behind me and from time to time when one of the personalities would “express” themselves— I would look back at him, raising my eyebrows. I’d catch him holding in his laughter! He was a fun hang too!
Beyond his professional demeanor, Robert often shared stories about his life, his love for the Eagles, and his dedication to his family. He was particularly excited about moving his parents to Florida so they could settle into a high-quality assisted living facility. I recall him juggling calls with a real estate agent during a lunch break, working tirelessly to ensure everything was in place for their transition. It was clear how much he cared for his family, as he also mentioned taking in and supporting his nephew.
Robert was a hardworking man, deeply committed to those he loved. He embodied the values of dedication, care, and responsibility. I only knew him for five months of his long profound life, but he will be missed.
Paul A Snipes Jr
December 13, 2024, 3:41 pm
Praying for You and your Family!