James Fredrick Henderlong

James Fredrick Henderlong, 88, of Aiken, SC, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 4, 1937, and raised in Crown Point, IN, James lived a life defined by devotion to his family, his country, his faith, and his community. He graduated University of Detroit in 1961 with an Architectural Engineering degree. While attending college, he completed Army ROTC, laying the foundation for a distinguished military career.

James proudly served in the Air Defense Artillery Branch of the United States Army. His assignments included the Army Air Defense School at Fort Bliss, TX, and service as an Liasion Officer with Bell Labs in Whippany, NJ. His expertise later led him to the Ronald Reagan Space & Missile Test Range (previously known as Kwajalein Missile Range), where he contributed to national defense initiatives. After decades of honorable service, he retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (LTC).

Following his military retirement, James began a second career as a building engineer with NJ Bell, later Bell Atlantic, and eventually Verizon. In 1999, he and his wife relocated from Morris Plains, NJ to Aiken, SC where he embraced a quieter, joy-filled chapter of life.

James was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 59 years, Carol Breza Henderlong, and a proud father to his sons, Michael E. Henderlong (Laura) and Keith T. Henderlong (Deborah). He treasured his role as “Papa,” finding immense joy in his grandchildren: William, Patrick, Mitchell, Daniel (Kayley), and his granddaughter, Leah Henderlong. He is also survived by his brothers, David (Mary), Richard (Lynne), Joseph (Sarasue), and Edward, Jr. (Laurie); along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In Aiken, James enjoyed playing golf at Houndslake Country Club. He was an active participant in both St. Vincent de Paul, and Mended Hearts, Aiken Chapter, where he lived out his commitment to service and compassion. James was also a dedicated supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, serving as Scoutmaster of Troop 173 in Morris Plains, New Jersey. He was an avid NAUI diver, logging numerous WWII wreck dives in and around Kwajalein Atoll.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 o’clock on Friday, September 18th at Old St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church with Father Richard Wilson officiating. Following the service, the family will welcome guests for a reception in Mother Teresa Hall until 12:30. A military burial will take place at 2 o’clock at Fort Jackson National Cemetery. Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel, is assisting the family.

The Henderlong family extends their deepest gratitude to Dr. Ansermo Arthur, Dr. Leo Muniz, Dr. Jose Cardenas, Trinity Hospice, Comfort Keepers, and caregiver Katy Russell, CNA, for their exceptional care and kindness.

James will be remembered for his gentle strength, unwavering integrity, and the kindness he offered freely to everyone he met. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the communities he served, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dementia Society of America, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Aiken Chapter, Trinity Hospice, or the charity of your choice.