TAMPA, Fla. – The city of Tampa is in mourning following the sudden death of District 5 City Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson, who passed away overnight at her home from natural causes. She was 60 years old.
Mayor Jane Castor and Tampa City Council Chairman Alan Clendenin confirmed the news with heavy hearts, remembering a leader who was deeply woven into the fabric of the community.
Tampa Fire Rescue personnel responded to an emergency medical call at her home this morning. Councilwoman Henderson was transported to a local hospital where life-saving efforts were unsuccessful.
READ: Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Extinguishes Garage Fire In Brandon
A West Tampa native, Henderson had a long and impactful career before joining the City Council. A dedicated educator with Hillsborough County Public Schools for decades, she also served on the City of Tampa’s Citizens Review Board. Her passion for her community and its history was evident in her ownership of a small business and her proud membership in the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Elected in 2023, Henderson quickly made her mark on the City Council. She was sworn in on May 1, 2023, and shortly thereafter became the Chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Known for her fierce advocacy, she championed issues of education, equity, and economic opportunity for her constituents.
Plans to honor Councilwoman Henderson’s life and service will be shared in the coming days.
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