The sudden death of Kendrick Henderson has shocked and saddened his family, friends, and the entire Carthage community in Texas.
Kendrick, known as “Bingo,” was a former athlete and a dedicated coach. He passed away at the age of 34 on Saturday night, February 7, 2026, in a hospital in Tyler, Texas.
Kendrick Cornelius Henderson was born on November 25, 1991, in Henderson, Texas, to parents Kemmy Corneal and Priscilla Pipkins Henderson.
He grew up in Carthage with his brother Kedrick and attended Carthage High School, where he excelled in multiple sports. He proudly lettered in football, track, and powerlifting, graduating in 2010.
As a standout football player, Kendrick was a key member of the Carthage Bulldog teams that won state championships in 2008 and 2009.
Wearing #52 as a dominant center and three-year starter, he brought toughness, intelligence, and leadership to the offensive line.
He was one of the first players Coach Scott Surratt met when he joined the program in 2007, and he quickly became a foundational piece that helped set the championship standard for Carthage Football.
After high school, Kendrick continued his football career at Northwestern State University on scholarship, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice.
An injury later ended his playing days, but his passion for the game never faded. He also attended Panola College, earning an Associate’s degree in Petroleum Technology, and worked as a field technician for SPL.
Beyond his own achievements, Kendrick had a big heart for youth sports. He generously coached football and baseball, positively touching the lives of countless young boys in the community by teaching them discipline, pride, and hard work.
On a personal level, Kendrick was a devoted family man. He married Crystal Nicole Lister on November 11, 2016, and they shared nine loving years.
He was a proud father to his twin sons, Karson and Karter, whom he cherished deeply. Tragically, he was preceded in death by his infant twin daughters, Hope and Faith.
His wife, Crystal, shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook after his passing:
“Well baby you messed the city up with this one! I’m really trying to be strong just as you taught me! But to say I’m ok, I am definitely not! You were my rock, my big bear, my best friend, literally my everything!! I wouldn’t do anything without asking you! Like, who am I supposed to talk to now? Like, who’s going to give me the best hugs and kisses! Who is going to calm me down when I’m getting overstimulated! But, I’m going to keep pushing because we have two of the smartest and strongest boys ever to look after! Bae, I promise I’m going to try to be strong! But, it’s literally going to be the hardest thing ever! See you one day forever my secret admirer. Oh I can’t Believe it! -Forever our song!”
Via Facebook
The Carthage Bulldog Athletics program posted a moving tribute, calling Kendrick a cornerstone of their football family.
Coach Scott Surratt remembered him warmly:
“Kendrick was everything you want in a football player and even more as a young man. He was tough, dependable, and played the game the right way every snap. What truly set Kendrick apart was his character, his attitude, and his work ethic. From the moment I met him, he set the standard for what it means to represent Carthage, to wear the C, and to play the game the way a Carthage Bulldog should. He helped lay the foundation of our program, and that standard still lives on today.”
Via Facebook
Kendrick lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others. Though his time here was far too short, his impact, as a player, coach, husband, father, and friend, will continue to inspire those who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Crystal, sons Karson and Karter, parents Kemmy and Priscilla, brother Kedrick, and many other relatives and loved ones.
A viewing was held from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home.
The funeral service took place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Faith Assembly of God Church, 1501 W. Sabine Street, Carthage, Texas, with Rev. Elzie Hicks officiating. Interment followed at Odd Fellows Cemetery, under the direction of Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home.
The community continues to grieve and support the family during this heartbreaking time.
Kendrick “Bingo” Henderson will always be remembered as a champion on and off the field, forever a Bulldog.
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