Richard Henderson, a school crossing guard at Avenues The World School on Manhattan’s West Side, was known for his warm and responsible approach to overseeing the arrival of students. Raised in East New York by a single mother, Henderson had no high school diploma, but he loved his job and the children entrusted to his care. Henderson formed strong connections with the students, often engaging in secret handshakes and participating in their games at recess. In return, the parents and children at Avenues showed their appreciation with gestures such as holiday checks or a cup of cocoa on cold days.
School crossing guards like Henderson play a crucial role in keeping children safe in cities like New York. While the training requirements for crossing guards are relatively straightforward, the essential qualities needed for the job, such as patience and a sense of humor, can be harder to quantify. Henderson’s upbringing in a turbulent neighborhood with a high crime rate shaped him into a gifted mediator who valued peace and harmony in his surroundings. His transition from security guard at construction sites to a beloved crossing guard at Avenues showcased his commitment to protecting and guiding the children under his watch.
Tragically, Henderson’s life was cut short in January when he intervened in a dispute on the subway and was shot and killed. His death left his family, including his wife Jakeba Dockery and their three children, devastated and struggling to come to terms with the loss. The community at Avenues and beyond rallied to support Henderson’s family, setting up a GoFundMe page that raised nearly $380,000 to help with expenses and provide financial stability. The outpouring of support from students, parents, and teachers highlighted the lasting impact Henderson had on those he encountered.
Beatrice Prince, a student at Avenues, had known Henderson since second grade and was deeply affected by his passing. Her brother Leo took it upon himself to set up a fundraising page to support Henderson’s family, and the response was overwhelming. The generosity of the Avenues community and beyond provided a lifeline for Dockery and her family during a difficult time. Students and faculty at Avenues paid tribute to Henderson through cards, testimonials, and a sidewalk memorial outside the school, showing the lasting impact of his presence on the school community.
The loss of Henderson underscored the profound impact that a dedicated crossing guard can have on the lives of the children they protect. Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, Henderson’s legacy lives on through the memories and tributes shared by those who knew him. The local community board’s efforts to rename the stretch of 10th Avenue where Henderson worked in his honor further solidify his lasting impact on the neighborhood. Henderson’s story serves as a reminder of the often unseen heroes who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of children in communities across the country.
