Steven Ray Henson

Steven Ray Henson, 55, of Durham, NC, passed away at home Saturday, November 13, 2021, after a courageous battle with small cell neuroendocrine cancer. Born November 30, 1965, in Knob Noster, MO, he was the son of Harold and Marjorie Henson.

As a military dependent, Steve grew up throughout the U.S., and graduated from Highland High School (Albuquerque, NM). He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, as well as Master of Science degrees in Physics and Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Dallas. With his scientific background and conceptual thinking, Steve’s career path led him to business development in the semiconductor, Irish ales, mass media, software, and home building industries. He also pursued screenplay writing as a creative outlet.

In 1985, Steve married the love of his life, his high school sweetheart, Maile Silver; they were married 36 years. His children were his pride and joy, and any mention of them brought an instant smile to his face. Leiana was born when they lived in Albuquerque, NM; Deryck was born after the family moved to Dallas, TX. They relocated in 1998 to the Research Triangle area, NC, and bounced back and forth twice due to work.

Steve was an extraordinary man who impacted many lives. He was a joyful, uplifting, positive person who was empathic and strived to make others feel heard, important, and loved. His infectious smile and laugh warmed all hearts, particularly when he told stories about his international adventures. He will be remembered fondly as a proud Miami Dolphins fan.  

Most importantly, Steve was a warrior of the highest caliber who overcame many challenges along his life journey. His valiantly fight through the insidious rare cancer was filled with light and positivity despite the pain. His strength, courage, and indomitable spirit were felt by all and will never be forgotten.

Steve is survived by his wife, Maile Henson; children, Leiana (Jason) Lane, and Deryck Henson; sibling, Ernie Henson; and loving nieces and nephews, Jessica (Damien) Conlon, Laura (Matthew) Gulling, Kyle Henson, and Sean Henson. Steve is preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie (Parker) Henson; father, Harold Henson; and brother, Kenneth Henson.

Special thanks to the Duke Cancer Center and Duke Home Hospice staff for their loving dedication to Steve's care. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to the Rare Cancer Research Foundation in his honor.

A viewing will be held at 1:00 PM followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at Hall-Wynne Funeral Chapel, 1113 West Main Street, Durham, NC 27701.