Rachel L. Lightsey Hendon

Rachel L. Lightsey Hendon, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away on June 14, 2025, at her home in Gulfport, Mississippi. Born on January 3, 1928, in the Antioch Community of Mississippi, Rachel lived a life filled with warmth, love, and immeasurable dedication to her family and faith.

Rachel's early years were spent in the Antioch Community, where she established her roots and later graduated from Ellisville High School. She was a native and longtime resident of the Antioch Community and Laurel before moving to Pascagoula, MS, and spending the last decade of her life in Gulfport. Throughout her life, Rachel was an avid church member, actively participating in the Antioch Methodist Church, a congregation that her family helped to found, and later joining First Presbyterian Church of Gulfport. Her commitment to her faith was evident through her involvement in church activities and Bible studies, which brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

As a homemaker, Rachel dedicated herself to creating a loving and nurturing environment for her family. She treasured her role as "Nini" to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often sharing her love of conversation and creating lasting memories with them. She is survived by her daughter, Vivian E. Dukes; her son, Joe Hendon; her seven grandchildren: Alan Thomas Dukes, Jamie Gravley, Hayden Hendon, Bailee Hendon, Douglas Wayne Lawler, Micah Lawler Sonderman, and Jonas Brock Lawler; her three great-grandchildren, Bayley and Peyton Gravley, and Riley Kate Sonderman; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loving family members and friends.

Rachel was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph H. Hendon; her daughter, Donna Elizabeth Lawler; her grandson, Destin Hendon; her parents, Mott Gordon Lightsey and Margaret Elizabeth "Bessie" Lightsey; her sister, Kate Lightsey Bennett; and her five brothers: Gordon, William Thomas, Hubert, Max, and Joe Allen Lightsey.

Mrs. Hendon was transferred from Riemann Family Funeral Home to Memory Chapel in Laurel, MS.  Please visit their website for their contact information Memory Chapel

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Antioch Methodist Church Cemetery, 845 Lower Myrick Road, Laurel, MS, where Rachel will be laid to rest alongside her loved ones.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Gulfport. 

Rachel L. Lightsey Hendon leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion that will be remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her. Her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.