Alton Cleveland Henderson, lovingly known as “Cleve,” 81, of Blackshear, passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 23, 2025, just two days before his 82nd birthday.
.jpg)
Born April 25, 1943 in Dixie Union, he moved to Blackshear at the age of five, where he would spend the rest of his life planting deep roots in the community he came to love. A proud 1961 graduate of Blackshear High School, he chose a life of purpose and simplicity, dedicating himself fully to farming. For more than six decades, he worked the Georgia soil with dedication and care, following the rhythm of the land and giving his best to every harvest. He was one of the founding members of Prime Produce, an organization that helped elevate local agriculture and gave farmers a stronger voice in the industry.
Throughout his life, he served on numerous agricultural committees and was known for his leadership and dedication to advancing the farming community. In 2016, he was honored as Farmer of the Year, a recognition of both his excellence in farming and his contribution to agriculture in the region.
He was a faithful member of Rehobeth Baptist Church, where he served on the finance committee and as a deacon. His faith guided every aspect of his life, and his quiet leadership left a lasting impression on his church family.
He was deeply appreciative of those who worked alongside him on the farm, especially Felton Jones of Blackshear and Steve Spencer of Waycross, who were more than employees – they were trusted friends and part of the extended family.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Norma Jean Henderson; his parents, Alton Harold Henderson and Darcil James Henderson Davis and both of his brothers-in-law, Brue Chandler and Tommy Thornton.
Survivors include his loving wife, Sandra Boatright Henderson, Blackshear; two daughters and sons-in-law, Paige and Michael King, Blackshear and Misty and Stan Harris, Bristol; two sons, Lin and Merry Gayle Boatright and Lee and Tara Boatright, all of Blackshear; his sister, Susan Chandler, Atlanta; two sisters-in-law, Cheryl Thornton, Blackshear and Cindi (Jim) Sattler, St. Marys; eight grandchildren, Taylor (Matthew) Aldridge, Bennett King (Taylor Dollar), Braxton Harris, Grayson Harris, Natalee Boatright (fiance’, Ethan Martin), Laura Kate (Blake) Dixon, Davis (Mac) Callahan and Anna Lisa (Chandler) Sturdivant; seven great-grandchildren, Kase Aldridge, Brooks Aldridge, Rylin Dixon, Ridge Dixon, Ellie Blake Dixon, Charlotte Sturdivant and Mary Mac Callahan and several nieces, nephews and other relatives.
His family was his greatest pride and joy. He will be remembered for his integrity, humility, leadership, and unwavering devotion to faith, family and farming. His legacy is rooted in the land he loved, the people he nurtured and the values he lived by every day.
Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. Friday, April 25, at the Rehobeth Baptist Church.
A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, April 25, from the Rehobeth Baptist Church.
Memorialization is by cremation.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorials be made to Hospice Satilla, 808 Evergreen Way, Waycross, GA 31501 or to Rehobeth Baptist Church, 1296 Cason Road, Blackshear, GA 31516.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online register at www.pearsondial.com.
Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.
