Gerald Wayne Hendrix

Gerald Wayne Hendrix
Mulhearn Funeral Home
West Monroe, LA

Funeral service for Gerald Wayne Hendrix will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday June 25, 2008 in the chapel of Mulhearn Funeral Home in West Monroe, LA with Travis Arrant and Bill Schooley officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Calhoun, LA.

Through broken hearts and tears of sorrow, we say goodbye to our beloved husband, father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend, Gerald “Wayne” Hendrix, age 55, of West Monroe, Louisiana. Wayne graduated from West Monroe High School, attended ULM, and proudly served his country as a United States Marine during the Vietnam era. He was retired from Contel due to his illness.

Heroes come from all walks of life it is true, and one quietly and honorably left this earth early Monday morning. A true “hero” to all those who were privileged to know and love Wayne, his fierce and courageous battle with Scleroderma came to an end as he was surrounded by his loving family, just as he wanted. Wayne’s heroic struggle was evident as he lived the past 20 years passionately pursing research that he prayed would give hope to others who suffered as he has suffered. Despite his debilitating illness, Wayne lived his life with zest and humor that oftentimes brought comfort to those who were trying to comfort him. He quietly battled his disease with dignity and courage; with few complaints and always a smile on his face. One of his greatest gifts was his compassion for other people and his keen sense of humor, which brought much joy and happiness to his family, friends and even complete strangers. Even in his darkest days, he was never at a loss for words; never at a loss for a good joke; never at a loss for a comforting smile. And while Wayne was devoted to his research, he was more devoted to his Heavenly Father. Even through his illness, Wayne’s commitment to God was such a testimony to those who watched his dedication to his church. He was an inspiration to his church members and set the example for many in his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. His love of the “Good Book” and his ability to use that knowledge was evident in the way he selflessly gave of himself to others. But just as passionate as he was about his church, he was equally passionate about his devotion to his family. Wayne’s beloved wife of 32 years, Janet, was truly, his one great love. The years he and “Momma” spent together, the ups and downs, the sickness and the health, truly gave him the strength to fight his illnesses. During their marriage, they were blessed with the birth of his two “girls”, Amanda and Ashley, who also gave him such pride and joy. Wayne’s love and devotion was also evident in his relationship with his parents and his extended family and friends, with whom he loved and enjoyed. And last but not least, among the many passions Wayne enjoyed, his music gave him many hours of enjoyment and happiness. As an accomplished musician and songwriter, Wayne used his gifts with music to sing and play, a pastime that brought much joy and appreciation to his family, friends and fans. What wonderful memories we have; what amazing examples we have to follow; but what long days ahead we have without our beloved Wayne. Our comfort will come from knowing that he now lives with his Heavenly Father, without pain, without suffering, and the ability to sing with his beautiful voice, as much as his heart desires.

Wayne was predeceased by his grandparents, Kendall and Sadie Ball, Simmie and Essie Hendrix and his father-in-law, Claude Boles.

He is survived by his adoring wife of 32 years, Janet Boles Hendrix; his two “girls” Amanda Hendrix and Ashley Hendrix; his parents, Jim and Dale Hendrix; sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Glen Risher; brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Terri Hendrix; sister-in-law and husband, Ruth and Tommy Gist; brother-in-law and wife, Bobby and Bo Boles; mother-in-law, Willie Boles; numerous adoring nieces, nephews, extended family and friends; and his “best” canine companion, Harley.

Pallbearers are Ronnie Beavers, Bruce Cunningham, Mike Griffin, Joe Shepherd, Bobby Hendrix and Robert Sabo. Honorary pallbearers are Kenneth Hendrix, Glen Risher, Bobby Boles, Tommy Gist and John Stump.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” II Timothy 4:7-8

Visitation will from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Tuesday June 24, 2008 at Mulhearn Funeral Home in West Monroe, LA.