Richard Melvin Henderson

Dr. Richard Melvin Henderson: A Devoted Shepherd, Leader, and Pillar of the Community

Dr. Richard Melvin Henderson, son of the late James and Sarah Henderson, was born on November 7, 1935, in Vance County, North Carolina. He entered eternal rest on August 11, 2025, at Duke University Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and steadfast Christian living that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A life of steadfast leadership and service began in his youth in Vance and Warren Counties, where he laid the foundations for the character that would guide him for decades. He pursued undergraduate studies at Hampton Institute in Hampton, Virginia, laying the groundwork for a life of intellectual curiosity joined to deep spiritual conviction.

Service to country and a broad horizon of discipline characterized his early years. Dr. Henderson served in the United States Air Force, during which he studied at the Kodokan Institute of Judo in Tokyo, Japan. He earned a Black Belt in judo and served as an instructor in Combat Measures for Combat Crew Members, exemplifying courage, precision, and a commitment to training others in the protection of our nation.

After completing his military service, he relocated with his family to New York. There, he connected with The Greater Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church and began a long chapter of community leadership and spiritual ministry in Brooklyn. His professional life spanned public service and law enforcement, with roles including a four-year tenure as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service and more than two decades with the New York City Police Department. He retired from the NYPD as Gold Shield Detective Team Leader of the 32nd Precinct Detective Unit, a testament to his strategic mind, calm demeanor, and unwavering integrity.

Dr. Henderson answered the call to ministry with equal vigor. He was ordained as a Minister of the Gospel and served as Assistant Pastor of Christian Faith Tabernacle and Greater Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, both in Brooklyn, New York. His academic pursuits complemented his spiritual calling: a Bachelor of Science degree from the New York Institute of Technology in 1978, a master’s degree from New York Theological Seminary in 1984, and a Doctor of Theology from the American Theological Seminary in Milledgeville, Georgia, conferred on June 4, 1988.

In May 1987, Dr. Henderson was installed as Pastor of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. Under his leadership, the church became a beacon of faith and community transformation. A sustained rhythm of worship, study, and service marked his tenure.

Dr. Henderson’s influence extended far beyond his pulpit. He played a formative role in the broader community, earning respect as a religious and civic leader who embodied service, faith, and practical compassion. Dr. Henderson lived a life of living faith in action, leading by example, guiding with wisdom, and serving with a humble heart. His steadfast commitment to spiritual renewal, educational opportunity, and community safety left an enduring imprint on the people and institutions he touched. He stood as a devoted shepherd, both guiding his congregation in worship and standing as a steady presence within the larger community, always ready to lend a hand, a word of counsel, or a faithful prayer.

Richard was preceded in death by his father, James Henderson, and his mother, Sarah Henderson, as well as by two brothers, David and James, and two sisters, Connelia and Rebecca. He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife of 68 plus years, Clara Marie Henderson; three sons, Richard Melvin Henderson Junior, Derick Henderson, and Corey Henderson; one brother, Charles Henderson; two sisters, Louise Seabrooks and Irene Thomas; grandchildren—Aisha Bryant (David), Jasmine Henderson, Michael Henderson, Dishauna Johnson, Myles Henderson, Heather Henderson, and Tiffany Henderson; six great-grandchildren; goddaughters Nicole Evans Gyimah and LaNina Cooke; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Today, the memory of Dr. Richard Melvin Henderson invites us to reflect on a life well lived—one defined by leadership that sought the good of others, faith that informed every choice, and a Christian witness that inspired accurate service. May his legacy continue to encourage present and future generations to pursue justice, pursue knowledge, and pursue a compassionate, Christ-centered life.

In his passing, the community remembers a man of resolve and grace, whose devotion to God, family, and neighbor remains a living model for all who strive to serve with integrity and love. May we honor his memory by continuing the work he championed: education, service, and steadfast faith in the risen Christ. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church Scholarship Fund.  

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