Carlton Henderson Sr.

Groton — Carlton “Chink” Theodore Henderson Sr., 65, of Groton was called home unexpectedly on Sept. 28, 2017.

Carlton graduated from Fitch Senior High School in Groton and claimed he had a diploma, but no one ever saw it! He was in the U.S. Army and did receive the National Defense Service Medal and badges proving that he could shoot a rifle and throw a hand grenade with the best of them! Carlton also stated that he was the national Army skee ball champion during his years of service, and was shot in the line of duty, only for his children to find out many years later that it was a scar from his immunizations! He worked in construction at Dow Chemical for many years.

Carlton was predeceased by his parents, Mary A. Nicholson Henderson and Samuel Henderson. He was also predeceased by his beautiful wife, Joy Henderson, brother, Pruitt Henderson, sister, Maria Nicholson, first love, RoseMarie Das, and stepson, Nathan McQuany. Carlton will now also join two of his very best friends, Michael “Brute” Robinson and Mr. Elbert Perry Jr. to catch up on old times!

Nothing mattered more to Carlton than his family and friends. Whatever he was being called at that time, Carlton, Chink, Papa, Poptu hindu, old man, or Daddy, he would give you that look and say “YEAH!” Carlton was survived by a whole lot of kinfolk all over! He had cousins and cousins and more cousins!

He will be truly missed by his daughter, Tara Henderson of Groton; sons, Carlton T. Henderson Jr. (Brandy) of Pawcatuck, Marcus Henderson of Groton, Justin Henderson of Groton, Pernell Henderson (Katie) of Groton; and daughter, Anissa Henderson of New London. He will also be missed by his grandchildren, Tiyana Summersett (John Jr.) of Groton, Collise, TaNejha, Naquan, Jazzlyn, Kyla, Gavin, Javon, Cynthia, Marcus and Nova; and his great-grandchildren, MiaRose, MyaRose, and John III. His loving dog, Thor, will miss him dearly.

Carlton was one of a kind; he kept in close contact with his former wife, Cynthia Ellis of Colorado, his old girlfriend, Holly McQuany, and his current girlfriend, Faye Divita, all at the same time!

And out of respect for Carlton, he is survived by a brother, Gerald Henderson.

His family will greet relatives and friends from 11 to noon on Friday, Oct. 6, at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl St., Mystic, followed by a funeral service at noon at the funeral home. Burial will be private for the family.