Barbara Rose Henderson

Beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Nurse and Friend

Barbara Rose Henderson, 87, of Southbury, passed away peacefully while enfolded in the love of her cherished family on October 20, 2025 at River Glen Health Care Center of Southbury.  Born December 6, 1937 in Derby, a daughter of the late Alfred and Frances (Vollaro) Romano.  Barbara now joins her late husband, Robert Henderson in blessed eternity.  

Barbara was a giver, generous with her time, talents and love.  As a Registered Nurse, her career spanned many years; from the maternity ward, to mental health support, and to those in convalescent care.  Her efficient manner, advocacy for her patients and gentle touch, brought healing and comfort to all of her patients.  Barbara was a wonderful mother, sister and Nonnie.  She embraced her Italian heritage daily; from making handmade pasta, meatballs and sauce from scratch, to baking thousands upon thousands of cookies for her legendary Christmas cookie trays. Her rice pies were also bountiful at Easter time.  Her Catholic faith brought her solace and certainty throughout her life with hymns of worship resonating in her heart.  Family was the core of her heart and life.  She never liked to be the center of attention, but rather the one to shower others with love and attention. 

Left to cherish her love and memory are her loving children: Lori (Don) Massey of Goshen, Richard (Therese) Henderson of Terryville, Ron (Alissa) Henderson of Bethlehem and Kaitlyn Henderson of Beacon Falls, her siblings, James Romano and Rosemarie Romano, as well as her many cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren who deeply loved their Nonnie.  Barbara is predeceased by her husband Robert, daughter Terry Henderson, grandson Christopher Massey and beloved sister, Shirley Laucella.  

All services are private and at the convenience of the family, as per Barbara’s wishes. In honor of Barbara’s love of children, memorial donations to St. Jude’s Research Hospital at stjude.org are greatly appreciated.  Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements and to care for the Henderson family throughout their grief journey.  You are invited to share your condolences on this website on Barbara’s tribute wall.

There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after they have gone, the light remains.  

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