William J. Henderson

William J. “Billy” Henderson, Jr. 67 passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025 at Seacrest Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Little Egg Harbor, NJ.

Billy was born in Philadelphia to the late William J. & Joyce K. Henderson.  He grew up in the Harding Lakes Section of Mays Landing and was a 1975 graduate of Oakcrest High School. 

Billy was a born entertainer.  At a young age, he followed in the footsteps of his Uncle Neil Jones and learned to play guitar.  Self-taught, he mastered the art and exceled on both the 6 string and 12 string, as well as the electric guitar and banjo. His influences included everything from the Beatles and James Taylor to Zeppelin and Yes.  

 As a young teenager, he found himself on stage of “Tony Grant’s Stars of Tomorrow” on the Steel Pier in Atlantic City.   During our years growing up (and to the angst of some of our neighbors), Billy would turn our front lawn into a jam session with friends.  

Throughout Billy’s career as a musician, and until his health forced him to put down the guitar, you could catch him playing at restaurants and bars throughout South Jersey and abroad.  Once retired from music, he would enjoy telling folks about his travels all over the world with his 12-string including Las Vegas, Utah, Florida, Bermuda and Europe.  But his favorite was North Conway, New Hampshire.  When he wasn’t singing, he was hitting the slopes to ski.  You could easily find Billy because he was the only one skiing while wearing a black leather jacket and dark shades he picked up at the general store.  

After several health setbacks, Billy was moved to Mystic Meadows followed by Seacrest in 2019.  He was loved and well cared for by the staff at Seacrest.  Our thanks and appreciation goes out to all that cared for Billy. 

While at Seacrest, Billy was able to get out and enjoy good times and laughs with friends at the Lower Bank Tavern, Mystic Island Casino and the MICA Club, where he was a member.  He also enjoyed joining fellow musicians at “Open Mic Nights” at the Grapevine and MICA.  While he could no longer play guitar, he loved joining bands and keeping rhythm with his tambourine.    

Billy is survived by his sisters, Joy (Dale) Dingler and Patti (Frank) Merlock, his niece, Jenna (Demetri) Kisby Karnessiss, as well as many cousins and friends. 

Funeral and burial services will be private.

The family feels that the best way to pay tribute to Billy is to support the talented musicians in your area.  Visit local establishments that promote and provide opportunities for musicians to showcase their talent.  While enjoying the music, drop a few bucks in the tip jar and tell them it’s in memory of Bill.         

 

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