Stephen T. Henson

Stephen Thomas Henson, devoted husband, loving father, decorated veteran, and respected Sergeant for the Long Beach Police Department lived a life defined by service, strength, and love. That courage and resilience never left him—it shaped the man he became in every chapter of his life.

Born on February 23, 1947, in Los Angeles, CA, he spent the early years of his life with his parents, John and Dicie Henson, his brother Johnny, sisters Debbie and Wendy, and his youngest brother Alex. He later moved to Connecticut to attend military school then spent 4 years at Ridgefield High where he made lifelong friends, played football, and was known for being a bit of a prankster. After graduation he answered the call of duty and joined the United States Marine Corps, landed in Vietnam on his 19th Birthday and served one tour abroad.

After his military service, Steve attended California State University, Long Beach where he met Jannette Kamdar, the love of his life. They dated through school and eventually married on July 7, 1977 in Diamond Bar, CA at her sister Dolly's and Edward's home. They decided to stay in Diamond Bar and built a life of laughter, resilience, and devotion, enjoying marriage for 46 years. Steve's proudest role was that of husband and father of two daughters, Tanya (married to Otto Jacobsen) and Lauren, who know him as their hero, teacher, and biggest supporter.

With a fierce spirit and unwavering dedication, he pursued his passion for justice as a detective with the Long Beach Police Department, where he was known for his sharp instincts, integrity, and steadfast commitment to protecting his community. His colleagues remember him as both tough and fair. The kind of officer his colleagues and community could count on. Outside of the badge, Steve was equally formidable. A black belt in karate, he embodied discipline and strength, while the ocean was his place of peace. Surfing was his sanctuary, where he found joy in the rhythm of the waves.

In 2006, Steve was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and fought through almost 20 years of this unprecedented battle with cancer. His recent diagnoses of liver cancer, Myelofibrosis, skin cancer and underlying heart disease, ultimately proved too much, even for him, to keep fighting. Steve passed away on August 23, 2025 in his home surrounded by family and has been reunited with his loving wife Jannette.

Steve leaves behind a legacy of honor, loyalty, and love. His story is one of courage, service, and strength of character, and he will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate to know him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the City of Hope, who did so much to help him enjoy more time with his loved ones.