Birth date: Oct 27, 1953 Death date: Jun 29, 2023
Largo, FL - Jeffery P. Henson (aka Mr. Happy) of Largo formerly of Seminole passed away on June 29, 2023 after a short illness. Arrangements are being handled by Moss Feaster Funeral Home. Condolences and memories can be shared at Read Obituary
I'll never forget when he threw an apple at a boy who was sleeping in class. 😂 It was funny but I was a little nervous if the kid would get upset. He didn't
I loved Mr. Henson. I graduated in 2003 but will never forget him. I enjoyed how fun and funny he was. I took regular history and a 60's and 70's class with him. He is a memorable teacher.
Mr. Henson, or Ghandi, as we knew him, (not so much because of his looks but because of his philosophy) [ok his looks too] was a true teacher. He had us all pick out a line of the Billy Joel Song, "We Didn't Start The Fire". We were tasked with researching the lyrical reference and then reporting on its meaning and historical significance, societal ramifications and overall impact. We were expected to discuss in very much detail. Hen-Dawg was truly a favorite teacher of mine. He made it fun and engaging. You could easily pickup on how passionate he was about truth and being real.
I miss Mr. Henson’s honesty so much! We started at the same school so many years ago. I always loved him stoping by my office during his planning period before his needed smoke break…
Enjoyed teaching with Mr. Henson at Meadowlawn and talking history with him.
I taught with Mr Henson at Meadowlawn Middle School. While I didn’t know him well, two memories of him stand out.
One was during an online faculty meeting during COVID. We were asked to turn on our cameras and when Jeff turned on his, he was decked out in his sunglasses, smoking a cigarette. His humor was much appreciated because I was sitting in my house going stir crazy and really needed a laugh.
Another memory of him was a more serious moment. I was upset about a family issue and he took me aside and shared some of his personal struggles with me. He showed a lot of empathy and I will always be grateful that he took the time to care.
When he retired, he left me a poster of a famous Holocaust quote. I will always think of him when I look at it. RIP Henson. You are fondly remembered!
Michelle Trivison
i had Mr Hensen for history of 60s and 70s about 20 years ago. i am sure many kids had their first time seeing classic movies or shows , like Blazing Saddles, in his classes. , an excellent and passionate teacher who Boca Ciega High School could be proud of. My condolences to his family.
Tom P class of 2003
Mr. Henson was a dynamic lecturer and comedian. His passion for the content and his personal spin/experiences led his audience to invest their interests in his "stories". He was a very honest and hilarious man. Every interaction with Mr. Henson left me smiling and often amazed at his ability to say what most people were thinking but would not dare to say for fear of repercussion.
He would visit my office with his newspaper and begin quizzing me on many occasions. He knew my knowledge was lacking so he humbly discussed topics while providing background that was much appreciated. He would text Happy Birthday and Happy Mother's Day every year from his beloved flip phone (which he refused to let go). He would have a witty comment during every passing and led all meetings with humor and honesty.
He was unapologetically himself and peopled loved him for that. He was kind, witty, honest, entertaining and extremely intelligent.
I will share personal experiences for years to come and these will continue to make me smile/laugh.
You are missed!
I'm so very sorry to have just learned this about my cousin, Jeff. He definitely could have been a contender on Jeopardy. I remember many times going to see Doug and Jeff play baseball, they certainly loved the game. Jeff was also extremely good playing trivial pursuit with my Dad, my Dad's wife Mary, myself and my ex husband John. He could not be beaten. Rest in peace Jeff.
Jeff was smart, articulate and funny. He held his heart close to him and he never doubted me. He told me that when I needed it most. Say hi to Mom and know I love you.
