Dr. Kenneth Paul Henson's Obituary
Dr. Kenneth Henson was born on February 24, 1965, in Lancaster, California, to Larry and Patricia (Grubbs) Henson. A gifted scholar and musician, Ken graduated from San Clemente High School in California and pursued his passion for vocal performance, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music from California State University, Fullerton. His devotion to faith and learning led him to obtain a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies specializing in the New Testament, from Vanguard University. He later achieved a Doctorate in Education, focusing on Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California.
On January 8, 1989, Kenneth married the love of his life, Vinita Thannickal, in San Juan Capistrano, California. Their union was blessed with two children, Jonathan and Marisha, who were the pride and joy of his life.
Dr. Henson and family moved to India in 1996. He was a New Testament scholar and taught at New Life College in Bangalore, India. Realizing the need for formal music training, he and his wife founded The Bangalore Conservatory, a testament to his dedication to the arts and education. With an unparalleled ability to inspire, he trained singers, performers, and professional groups across the United States, India, and travelled to perform in over 25 countries. He also designed innovative programs to harness the voice as a powerful instrument for performance and communication, leaving an indelible impact on countless students and colleagues. For 18 years, his favorite weekend activity was teaching several Bible studies. He and his wife lived and served in India for 29 years.
On January 23, 2025, Ken passed away while bravely battling glioblastoma for nearly one year. He was a man of deep faith, immense talent, and unwavering love for his family and the Kingdom of God.
Ken's legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of those he touched through his music, teachings, and compassionate spirit.
He is survived by loving family members including: his mother, Patricia, his wife, Vinita; his daughter, Marisha; his son, Jonathan, and by his brother, Lars. He was preceded in death by: his father, Larry and by a brother, Ron. The extended family includes his in-laws, Dr. John and Mary Thannickal, brothers-in-law, Steve and Victor Thannickal, along with a host of loving relatives, grateful students and friends from all over the world.
Hebrews 12:1 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight that so easily entangles us and let us run with endurance the race set out for us."
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