Debra A. Henderson

Debra A. Henderson, 71, of Watertown, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at her daughter’s home, surrounded by her loving family, following a lengthy battle with ALS.

Debra was born on August 29, 1954, in Niagara Falls, New York, the daughter of Walton J. and Beverley J. (Seymour) Sugrue Sr. She graduated from Indian River Central School in 1973 and later earned her degree from Jefferson Community College in 1989. On April 20, 1974, she married the love of her life, John Wesley Henderson II.   She was a homemaker and later returned to work and held various jobs, retiring from North Country Neurology.

Debra loved playing bingo, camping, bowling, working on diamond art, reading, and playing cards and video games. She also enjoyed the occasional trip to the casino, but her greatest happiness always came from spending time with her family and her dogs.

She is survived by her children, Jillian (Jason) Russell and John W. Henderson III, of Watertown, and her grandchildren: Dylan Heath, Austin Henderson, John W Henderson IV, Ashton Heath, Carlee Redder, Khalin Russell, Brody Henderson, Maddison Russell, Joseph Henderson, and Thomas Henderson. Debra is also survived by her siblings, Walton J. (Rachel) Sugrue Jr., Joyce (Donald) Wilder, Leonard Sugrue, Patricia (David) Pharoah, and Judy (William) Crast, along with many nieces and nephews.

Debra was predeceased by her parents; her beloved husband, John W. Henderson II, who passed away on May 4, 2015; and her brother, Michael Sugrue.

In honoring Debra’s wishes, she will be cremated, and the family will hold a memorial service at the Antioch Baptist Church 24650 Hinds Road, Watertown.  Burial will be in Evans Mills Cemetery in the spring.

Donations in her memory may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County 1398 Gotham St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.

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