Tributes

Loving wife, mother and friend Nancy “Topi” Gilbert Henderson (76), passed away on August 13, 2024 in Tallahassee, Florida. She was born in Huntington, West Virginia to parents John Ellis and Margorie Freutel Gilbert on August 4, 1948. She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, James "Scott" Henderson; daughters, Julia Henderson Daum (spouse John Daum) and Sarah Michael; and granddaughters Madison and Kylie Daum and sisters Marjorie Gilbert Dale, Nancy Storey and Shari Martin as well as various extended family members, friends and mentees who have all been forever changed by her. She has imparted her love of adventure, trust in karma, endless facts, pure grit, internal compass, appreciation for music and the arts, strength and grace, contagious laughter and a deep sense of empathy; ensuring her legacy will live on through the lives she bettered. Topi’s marriage to Scott was a true partnership filled with love, music, and countless adventures. Whether they were hosting parties, camping or on cross-country road trips, there was never a dull moment. Their home was always filled with music, from James Taylor on Sunday mornings to classic rock and roll. They hosted legendary parties at Boothill and their life together was one of joy and celebration. As a mother and grandmother, Topi was a constant source of strength and wisdom. She was there for every milestone, offering her daughters and granddaughters not just love, but a deep sense of empathy, an appreciation for learning, and an unshakeable internal compass. She extended this love and care to many who consider her "their other mother", from the divers at Team Orlando to the students of Dr. Phillips High School that she helped apply to colleges and scholarships to the teenagers who needed a listening ear and a safe place to gather. Topi’s home was a haven, where all were welcome, and where her warmth and generosity were felt by everyone. Topi was dedicated to many groups and causes. She was passionate about her role at the Red Cross where she worked tirelessly for veterans and victims of disasters or house fires. She would appear ungrudgingly on scene at all hours of the night getting the afflicted set up with food, clothing and housing. She was an avid quilter and together with the Tallahassee Quilt Guild, she designed and made countless quilts, most of which she gave away. Later in her life, she met and cherished an ensemble of dear, loving friends, self-named "The Clownfish Asylum" who dance and sing while doing water aerobics each day in pools around Tallahassee. Topi also contributed to a devoted cat rescue crew “Smitten with Kittens” and became known as the one who could rehabilitate even the most challenging case into a loving pet for a new welcoming family and home. Despite her 12-year battle with CLL cancer, a broken back and breast cancer, Topi fought through it all with the same strength and positive attitude that she instilled in all those she has impacted, helped or rehabilitated. While many were not able to say goodbye, she is with all of you and will continue to be with us all, nudging us on, in the right direction, if we just listen. The family will be receiving guests for a visitation at Bevis Funeral Home on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at 1:00PM to be followed by a celebration of her life at 2:00PM. The family invites all guests to join them in wearing casual, colorful attire for Topi’s service. In lieu of flowers, Topi would appreciate it if you would consider donating to Smitten with Kittens Rescue (www.smittenwithkittens.net). We hope you will join us to celebrate her life and the love she brought to us all. After all, she would want us to have one more epic party! Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Nancy "Topi" Gilbert Henderson

August 4, 1948 - August 13, 2024