Charles Smith Henderson

Charles “Papa” Smith Henderson

Charles “Smitty” Smith Henderson, 72, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2025, entering his heavenly home. He was born on April 18, 1953, in Atlanta, and throughout his life he was a hardworking outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and bowling in his younger years.

Smitty was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and love of pranks. He never missed a chance to tell a story or make someone laugh. Though he could be famously cranky, especially if someone interrupted his favorite TV shows, his family knew that behind the grumbles was a heart of pure gold. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was simply “Papa,” a role that gave him his greatest joy.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn (Witcher) Henderson; his three children, Richard Henderson, Shannon (Henderson) White and son-in-law Charles White, and Laura Salter; his sister, June (Henderson) Hollis; four grandchildren, Alyssa (White) Harvey and husband Rusty, Jessica Vargas, Jonathan Vargas, and Ryan White and wife Kiara; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. His legacy of laughter, generosity, and love will live on in all who knew him.

Charles was preceded in death by his mother, Jane (Henderson) Ferraro, his stepfather, Sam Ferraro, and his brothers, James Henderson and Sammy Ferraro.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 21, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Panola Mountain State Park, 2620 Georgia 155 SW, Stockbridge, GA 30281. Family and friends are invited to share stories, laughter, and memories as we celebrate his life.

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