Tehachapi News

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Long-time Tehachapi resident, Oleta Vera Henderson, went home to be with her Lord on March 29, 2008. She was 94 years old.

Oleta was born in Dustin, Okla. on October 24, 1913 to parents Odie and Ozie Williams.

She was married to Floyd Henderson for 60 years before his passing.

Oleta was a member of the Apostolic Faith Church of Tehachapi for over 65 years.
Her life was full. She raised five boys, for whom she sewed all of their clothes. She loved to quilt and enjoyed canning and cooking — her best was chicken and dumplings.

Mrs. Henderson is survived by her sons, Bill and Betty, of Bakersfield, Joe and Pat, of Avenal, Allen and Lillie, of Sabrina, Okla., and Dan, of Tehachapi; sisters, Alpha Smithson of Tehachapi and Tressie Freeze of Bakersfield; 17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, numerous great-great-grandchildren, cousins, nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd; son, Don and her parents Odie and Ozie.

Services were held April 4 at the Wood Family Funeral Service Chapel, with interment following at Tehachapi Public Cemetery - Eastside. Reverend Mark Staller officiated the services. Wood Family Funeral Service, Inc. handled the arrangements.