Thomas W. Hendrickson

Thomas W. Hendrickson, age 79, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday morning, June 10, 2026, at his daughter's residence in Russiaville, Indiana. A longtime resident of Brown County, Thomas lived a life defined by hard work, service, faith, and a deep love for family and the outdoors.

Born on July 5, 1946, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Thomas was the son of the late Clarence W. Hendrickson Jr. and Betty (Mount) Hendrickson. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Private and continued his military service with Company A, 138th Signal Battalion of the Indiana National Guard.

Thomas dedicated more than 30 years to the railroad industry, retiring from Conrail in 1996 after a distinguished career as a brakeman and conductor.

A faithful member of Brown County Community Church in Helmsburg, Thomas found joy in many pursuits throughout his life. He loved bluegrass music, attending concerts, and was a talented dulcimer player. He cherished time spent outdoors mushroom hunting, deer hunting, and fishing. Alongside his beloved wife, Cheryll, he enjoyed square dancing with the Bucks & Does in Brown County. Thomas was passionate about learning and sharing knowledge of alternative and natural medicine, enjoyed playing Keno at the casino, and had a special affection for dogs, always ensuring there was a faithful canine companion at home.

He will be missed by his wife of 25 years, Cheryll E. Hendrickson of Brown County, whom he married on June 15, 2001. He will also be missed by his children Betty Jo (Tony) Clark of Kingwood, Texas, Jeremy Hendrickson of Kokomo and Megan Hendrickson of Russiaville; stepdaughter, Bridget Esselborn of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Melanie (Keene) Red Elk, Travis Clark, Autumn (Ryan) Dean, Taylor Clark, Preston (Ashley) Hendrickson, Alanna (Nate) Radar, Elaine, Leighton, Laila, and Chase Hendrickson, Chaz and Lex Chapman and Minka Hendrickson; great grandchildren, Keelen, Kyden, Ella, Ian, Everly, Zane and Mila; siblings, Sandy Fox of Greenwood, Janice Puckett of Indianapolis and Susan Wooton of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepdaughter, Deborah Taflinger, siblings. Kenneth Hendrickson, Mike Evans, and Nancy Nelson.

Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Meredith Funeral Home: 179 E. Mulberry Street in Morgantown. A funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 19th at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery with military rites presented by the Brown County Honor Guard and the United States Army.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Thomas to the American Cancer Society: P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 or to the Brown County Community Church: P.O. Box 62 Helmsburg, IN 47435.       

In his final months, Thomas was lovingly cared for by his daughter, Megan, who remained faithfully by his side and his grandson, Chaz, who selflessly helped provide daily care, comfort and companionship, ensuring Thomas was surrounded by love until the end.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.meredithfuneral.com

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