Gwen Henderson

The Hillsborough County School Board unanimously voted to honor Henderson at her alma mater after the teacher, bookstore owner, community activist and champion for Black culture died in June at age 60.

Only registered voters who live District 5 are eligible to vote in the Sept. 5 election. Henderson, who died last week at age 60, was elected in 2023.

Each council member shared their own tribute to Henderson at Thursday’s Tampa City Council meeting. Many said the same — Henderson was a tough force, but she had a good heart.

After Henderson died Tuesday, fellow council members and the owner of a neighboring Tampa Heights business remember the impact she had on the community.

The longtime activist was hailed as a champion for Black culture and a “powerhouse in the community” that brought passion, empathy and historical knowledge to all her roles.