Sheila Jane Hensley

Sheila Jane Hensley, 84, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026. She was born on March 1, 1942, in Ennis, Texas, to Pastor Henry A. and Evelyn Lamance.

Sheila graduated from Bells High School and went on to devote her life to serving others. She worked as a house manager for MHMR, where her compassion and unwavering commitment to individuals with intellectual disabilities made a lasting impact.

Her heart for service extended far beyond her career, as she volunteered as a Special Olympics coach for many years, encouraging, mentoring, and inspiring countless athletes.

She was a member of Woodlawn Baptist Church in Denison, where she enjoyed singing in the church choir. Sheila and her husband, Benny, were the first couple married at the church’s current location.

Sheila was united in marriage to the love of her life, James Benny Hensley, with whom she shared many wonderful years until his passing.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Sheila loved gathering with family and friends around a game of Wahoo, spending peaceful days fishing on Lake Texoma, watching squirrels and enjoying the beauty of nature, and showering affection on her beloved dachshund, Oscar.

Above all else, she treasured her family and the time they shared together.

As the oldest of five children, Sheila naturally stepped into the role of leader and protector. She never hesitated to lovingly put her siblings—or anyone else—in their place when needed. Her strength, wisdom, and loving guidance earned her the cherished title of the family’s matriarch. Her caring spirit, generous heart, and passion for helping others will be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Sheila is survived by her sons, Benny Wayne Hensley and wife, Joyce, Bradley Hensley Sr., and Dustin Hensley; her daughter, Laurie Nelson and husband, Jerry; her grandchildren, Holly Martin, Jackie Donahue, Jedidiah Benjamin Hensley, Whitney Scarboro, Bradley Hensley Jr., and Kaytlyn Hensley; 14 great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Benny Hensley; her parents, Pastor Henry A. and Evelyn Lamance; her son, Bryan Hensley; and her grandson, Brandon Wayne Hensley.

Though her family mourns her passing, they rejoice in knowing that Sheila’s legacy of faith, compassion, strength, and selfless service will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The service will be officiated by Pastor Kevin Clinton.

A graveside service to celebrate Sheila’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 3, 2026, at Georgetown Cemetery in Pottsboro, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are encouraged to the Special Olympics of Greater North Texas:

https://support.specialolympics.org/a/donate-in-your-state