Pauline Wilma Henderson

Pauline “Polly” Mooney Henderson was born in Dell, Arkansas on August 8, 1918. She was one of 13 children, 10 girls and 3 boys. Her early years were spent in the hills of Ravenden Springs. It was a fun, carefree, adventurous life. When Pauline was 13, the Depression hit and the family had to leave the resort and moved back to their cotton farm in Dell. Everyone had to help out but the large family made their own fun. Pauline remembered how excited everyone was when they got electricity in the area and the Christmas trees came on. She witnessed many new advances and inventions in her 100 years. In high school she played basketball and then went on to College of the Ozarks with her sister, Virginia. Her father’s death ended their college careers. At home, Pauline opened her own beauty shop. She had a busy social life and was dating 3 boys when she accepted Bob’s proposal. In 1952 the cotton crop failure forced the move to California. Pauline and her sister, Mary Lee, drove west with Bobby, 7, and Frank, 4, pulling a trailer behind them. Eventually Pauline worked in beauty shops here.

She worked at Vel Arts until her retirement at 81 years of age. Pauline didn’t slow down. She always started each day with her makeup on and dressed. She was ready for any activity with her family and friends. In the mornings she loved to start her grandchildren off with a special breakfast before they left for middle school. Pauline had a big heart and truly cared about everyone.

She spent Easter Sunday with family and died 2 days later at home. Her next chapter is just beginning.