Anita Kay Henderson

Anita Kay Henderson, 84, of Avon, passed away on March 14, 2026. She was born on May 3, 1941, in Washington, Indiana, to the late Mervin and Lova (Osman) Small.

Anita graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in 1959 and went on to build a dedicated career in clerical work with Blue Cross Blue Shield, where she worked for over 25 years. She was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Mooresville for more than 40 years, where her presence and spirit touched many lives.

Anita found great joy in her community at Thornbury Senior Living, where she formed cherished friendships and participated in Bible study. She had a deep love for reading, especially mystery novels, and enjoyed watching true crime documentaries. Anita was also a talented cook, known by family and friends for making every dish with care and excellence.

Creativity brought her happiness, whether through painting or drawing, and she found peace in the outdoors and among animals. She especially loved visiting Avon Gardens with her son, Brett, and granddaughter, Kinzi, to pick out flowers. Daffodils and hyacinths were among her favorites, reflecting her bright and gentle spirit.

Above all, Anita treasured her family. She loved her grandchildren dearly and cherished every moment spent with them. She will be remembered as kind, funny, and deeply loved by all who knew her.

Anita’s warmth, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Survivors include her children, Lora Early (Rob), Brett Henderson, and Mark Henderson; grandchildren, Zachary Henderson (Elizabeth), Amanda Henderson, Jessica Ecker (Chris), Jacob Burgett, Alex Henderson (Claudia), Mark Henderson, and Kinzi Jones; great-grandchildren, Ehtan, Noah, Mary, and Hannah; brothers, Rex Small, Steve Small, and Jon Small (Ann); sisters, Karol Burton and Trudy Carpenter (Tim); and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

In addition to her parents, Anita was preceded in death by her brothers, Randy, Jay, and Vaughn Small.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the chapel at Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory in Mooresville. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 p.m. with David Lynch officiating. Anita’s earthly remains will be cremated following the service.