Saltville, VA

Roy Braxton “R. B.” Henderson Jr., age 70, went to his heavenly home on Saturday, August 15, 2026. R. B. was a wonderful husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and soon-to-be grandfather whose life was marked by his love for his family, his faith, and his service to others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Braxton “Brack” Henderson Sr. and Gladys Frye Henderson; father-in-law, Samuel “Sam” Lowe; and mother-in-law, Audrie “Tootsie” Lowe.

R. B. is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Marlene Lowe Henderson; daughter and son-in-law, Megan and Corey Daugherty; sister, Shirley Lockhart; mother-in-law, Betty Lowe; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other loving family members and friends. One of R. B.’s greatest joys in recent months was looking forward to becoming a grandfather. He could hardly wait to welcome his grandson, Braxton Walker Daugherty.

R. B. was a hardworking man who spent much of his career in the concrete and construction industry. He worked for H.S. Williams before helping start H & F Contracting, Inc., where he continued working in concrete for many years. Later in his career, R. B. brought his years of experience and knowledge to the Town of Saltville, serving as Director of Public Works. His commitment to his hometown continued through his service as a member of the Saltville Town Council, where he remained dedicated to the community and the people who called it home.

R. B. was a faithful member of Tate’s Chapel United Methodist Church. His desire to help others was also evident through the time he generously gave volunteering with the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, helping serve those in need throughout the community.

Freemasonry was another important part of R. B.’s life and provided him with many opportunities for fellowship, leadership, and service. He became a Mason at his home lodge, William King 227 on December 12, 1984 and faithfully served for more than 40 years. Throughout those years, he held numerous positions of leadership, including Worshipful Master, High Priest, and Commander within his local Lodges, Chapters, and Commanderies. His years of dedication culminated in his service as Grand Commander of the State of Virginia in 2017, an honor that reflected his longstanding commitment to the principles and brotherhood of Masonry.

Above all, R. B. loved his family. He treasured the life he shared with Marlene, was proud of his daughter and family, and was eagerly anticipating the new chapter of becoming a grandfather to Braxton. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his willingness to serve, and the many roles he filled throughout his life, but most importantly for the husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor that he was.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home. Masonic services will begin at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Dave Serven and Pastor John Graham officiating. Inurnment will be private at Mount Rose Cemetery Mausoleum in Glade Spring, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, 141 Pine Street, Chilhowie, VA 24319.

The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Roy Braxton “R. B.” Henderson Jr.