Carol (Ruez) Hensley

Carol Ann Ruez Hensley, 89, of Philo, completed her earthly journey on Jan. 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on Dec. 16, 1935, in Baltimore, Md, Carol’s life was a remarkable testimony to faith, resilience, and unwavering selflessness. The cherished daughter of William and Arletta Ruez, Carol grew up in Baltimore, and then headed to Anderson College in Anderson, Ind. It was there she met the love of her life, Donald “Tony” Hensley. Together, they built a life centered around their shared faith, love and purpose, raising their young family in Gridley, Ill., before settling in St. Joseph, where Carol would leave an indelible mark on her community. Carol was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tony, in 2002; her son, Rodney Hensley; her daughter, Tina Hensley-Hall; and her great-granddaughter, Karolina Joy Bletscher. She is survived by her daughters, Holly (Gordon) Gilly of St. Joseph, and Aleta (Brody) Keith of Philo; five grandchildren: Ben (MaryJane) Gilly, Merry (Nick) Blakey, Kristina (Kyle) Bletscher, Sam (Natalie Wolfe) Gilly, and Jesse (Alayna Tarr) Karrick; and eight great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Barbara Kindred of Hilton Head, S.C. Throughout her life, Carol shaped the lives of others, both as a beloved school teacher and a spiritual mentor to many. Devoted to helping those in need, she was a passionate advocate for the underdog, offering support to anyone in need of help. Despite living frugally, Carol’s generosity knew no bounds — she would gladly give her last dime to help someone in need, embodying compassion in its truest form. Her home was a haven for young people. As a youth leader, she and Tony welcomed her children’s friends into a joyful environment filled with games, fun fellowship, and lots and lots of laughter. Carol’s hospitality and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She will be remembered as a strong woman with a servant’s heart, always placing others’ needs above her own. Her love and support provided a steady foundation for her family and community. Carol’s legacy of grace, kindness, and generosity will live on in the lives she touched. Funeral services will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday at the Church of Christ, 226 E. Sherman St., St. Joseph, with the Rev. Ryan Rosser officiating. Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday at the church. Burial will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Huls Cemetery, Gifford.

A funeral service will e held at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the Church of Christ, 226 E Sherman, St. Joseph.  Rev Ryan Rosser will officiate.  Visitation will be from 3 - 5  also on Tuesday at the church.

Burial will be at 1:00 Wednesday at Huls Cemetery, Gifford. In honor of Carol’s life and values, the family kindly requests that donations be made to C-U at Home. Donations can be made at www.cuathome.us or sent directly to C-U at Home, PO Box 8816, Champaign, IL 61826, with “In Memory of Carol Hensley” noted.