Submitted by Florida Courier Staff
(Source: Florida Courier)
The Tampa community is mourning the June 9 passing of Tampa Councilwoman Gwen-dolyn Henderson. She was 60 years old.
A statement posted on the City of Tampa’s website from Mayor Jane Castor and Tampa City Council Chairman Alan Clendenin confirmed the sudden passing of Henderson, a council member since 2023.
The statement called her “a powerhouse in our community — she was a teacher, busi-ness owner, and champion for African American culture and Tampa’s history. Her sense of humor energized our city, and her loss leaves a deep void for all of us.’’
She died of natural causes in her home overnight [Monday night], according to the statement. “Tampa Fire Rescue personnel responded to an emergency medical call this morning and transported Councilwoman Henderson to the hospital, where life-saving ef-forts were unsuccessful.’’
Since her election to the city council in 2023, she was known for her fierce advocacy on issues of education, equity, and economic opportunity. Prior to serving on City Council, she spent decades as a dedicated educator with Hillsborough County Public Schools and served on the City of Tampa’s Citizens Review Board.
She was the current chair of Tampa’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and owned the Black English Bookstore in Tampa with her daughter Ariel Amirah.
A Tampa native, Gwendolyn Henderson was born on Oct. 5, 1964, and grew up in the working-class Carver City neighborhood.
She received her Bachelor of Science degree in education from Florida A&M University (FAMU) and received a Master of Education and Education Specialist degree in educational leadership and higher education administration from Saint Leo University.
She had been a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority since 1994.
She was a life member of the Florida A&M University Alumni Association, Saint Leo Uni-versity Alumni Association, American Booksellers Association and Southern Indie Booksellers Alliance.
Plans to honor Henderson’s life and service will be shared in the coming days.
