Anthony "Tony" R. Hensley

Anthony (Tony) Richard Hensley, 64, of Anderson passed away unexpectedly on February 3, 2023, at Ascension St Vincent Hospital.

Tony was born on January 21, 1959, to Patricia Ann (Paschal) Hensley and Verlon Richard Hensley in Anderson, Indiana. He graduated from Highland High School in 1977.

Shortly after graduation, Tony went to work at Firestone Corp. in Noblesville. While there, Tony was a loyal member of the URW, later the USW, and Teamsters. As a strong union man, he spent many years organizing, participating in demonstrations and strikes, and representing his coworkers with consideration and allegiance. After “Retirement” he worked for many years at Meadowbrook Golf Course as their resident Mr. Fixit. Tony especially loved reading, despite having dyslexia. He especially loved reading books by Louis L’Amour and Steven King.  Tony would normally respond to “How are you?” with “Stupendous!” He loved to put smiles on others’ faces and make them laugh with his captivating stories and practical jokes. He could converse with anyone and particularly loved having lively debates on philosophy, religion, and most of all like a good precinct committeeman, politics. He was the light and backbone of his family; his passing will leave a hole in their hearts.

He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Elaine; Brother, Steve Hensley; Sisters, Linda (Terry) Powers, and Nancy (Tony) Gutierrez; Sons, Byron (Mary) Randol, Jason Vail-Simmons, Nathan Landes, and Ian Denney; Grandchildren, Taylor (John Bowers) Randol, Regan (Kody Eldridge) Randol, Stevi (Ely) Briar, and Devon Turpin; Nieces, Arianna Solare, Marissa (Levi) Garrison, Jessika Powers, Amanda Dwiggins, Adiah Coffman, Della Dwiggins, Stevie Downey and Geneva Hensley; Nephews, Mitchell Hensley, Scott (Teresa) Grant, Nick (Heather) Patterson, Justin Moreland, Nathan Young, Kyle O’Bryant, Kolton O’Bryant, and Deken Kuhns; Great Grandchildren, Joseph Randol, Aurora Mandabach, Evelyn Briar, Anna Briar, Cassie Billings, and Parker Turpin; As well as many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Teresa Jo Hensley.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life on Friday, February 10, 2023, at New Life Nazarene Fellowship Hall, located at 3615 Raible Avenue, Anderson, from 3 to 5 p.m. with a memorial service beginning at 5 p.m. A pitch-in dinner will follow.