Obituary of James W. Hensley

James William Hensley, age 80, passed away enveloped in the love of family at his residence in Walton, KY on June 2, 2023.

Born in Verona, KY on June 30, 1942, he was the son of the late William and Martha [Webster] Hensley.

Through his friends, James was introduced to the love of his life, Betty Waters. After a little over a month of courting, he and Betty were married. James was a veteran of the United States Army.  He was passionate about work and providing for his family. For over 30 years, he owned and operated his own concrete company. He retired as project manager for Bowlin Group.  In his younger years, James played fast-pitch softball. As he entered his golden years, softball transitioned into playing golf.  James’s family treasured the annual golf trips they made together.  James was a bit of a yarn-spinner and loved to tell tales (some may have been taller and more embellished than others, but they were always stamped with James’ signature humor).  James was known to possess a fiery, eristic personality but those who could soften his heart were 11 special people who called him “papaw” – his grandchildren. This unique man who was husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend will be forever missed.

Those surviving to carry on James’s legacy are his children Shane (Kelley) Hensley, Heather (Troy) Goldsberry, Alex (Casey) Hensley, and Reggie (Desiree) Hensley; his siblings Betty Smith, Don Hensley, Gary Hensley, Gayle Smith, Bobbi Riesenbeck and Shelia Hensley; grandchildren Isabelle Middendorf, Colton Goldsberry, Logan Middendorf, Coy Goldsberry, Emily Hensley, Adam Middendorf, Dixie Hensley, Lyla Hensley, Jesse Hensley, Jaxon Hensley, and Benny Hensley; along with many other close relatives and beloved friends. James was preceded in death by his wife Betty Hensley; his daughter Angel Hensley; and his brother Terry “Butch” Hensley.

A visitation will be held for James at Chambers & Grubbs Funeral Home, 45 N. Main St., Walton, KY 41094 on June 10, 2023. The family will receive guests from 10:00 AM until shortly before the time of the memorial service at 12:00 PM.  Directly following the service, James will be laid to rest at New Bethel Cemetery, Verona, KY with military honors.

If James were here, he would ask that you tip your servers well at his favorite restaurant: Waffle House. However, if you’d like to donate in his name, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church Of Walton.  You can either donate in person at services or give online at https://www.fbcwalton.org/donate. 

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