While Benchmarks compiled these thoughts, we would not have been able to share them without his colleagues across the state offering their fondest memories.
Children and families lost a staunch advocate this week with the passing of Bob Hensley.
Bob spent his life working tirelessly to improve the lives of others throughout the state and very few of us who work in child welfare are not familiar with the guidance and innovation that he provided. His efforts were gallantly rewarded with multiple lifetime awards but for those who worked with him, he was so much more than devoted professional, he was also a cherished friend.
Bob recognized that much of the work that we do is hard and always found the opportunity to laugh whenever he could. He had an infectious laugh. He cared deeply for his colleagues and considered them to be part of his family.
His friends remember many occasions where he was the jokester of the group be it an enjoyable meal or a serious meeting. He was well known for his clever birthday greetings and his cameo work as a back-up singer. But he also had a more somber side and would offer mentoring and wisdom to those who sought it. Bob always put the lives of the children and families that he was tasked with serving above all other priorities.
This meant that sometimes you would get the answer you wanted, and sometimes you would not. But we always knew that Bob was providing the answer that kept the child and family at the center of the work that was being done.
Throughout the years and his many positions, Bob was
steadfast in his dedication to improving the lives of families throughout North Carolina.
He will be missed.
Bob's families and friends know that there is no better gift that he could have received this week for his 72nd birthday than to spend it in heaven with his Lord and Savior as well as his loved ones who had already passed.
A private service will take place tomorrow at Spencer Baptist church;
there is an option to attend virtually via the church's Facebook page.
