Tampa City Council Member, Gwendolyn Henderson, Dies At 60

TAMPA, FL — Tampa City Council member Gwendolyn Henderson, 60, died of natural causes at her home overnight, according to a city news release.

She was also the owner of the Black English bookstore at 401 E. Oak Ave. The store focuses on works by Black authors, as well as banned and challenged titles.

Tampa Fire Rescue crews responded to an emergency medical call Tuesday morning at Henderson’s home. She brought her to a local hospital, where lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful, the city said.

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The West Tampa native, who represented District 5, was sworn in as a city council member on May 1, 2023. Not long after this, she also became chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency.

“Councilwoman Henderson was a powerhouse in our community — she was a teacher, business owner, and champion for African-American culture and Tampa’s history. Her sense of humor energized our city and her loss leaves a deep void for all of us,” the city said.

Before serving on city council, Henderson was an educator with Hillsborough County Public Schools and served on the city of Tampa’s Citizens Review Board.

Henderson was also “a proud member” of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., according to the city.

“We are heartbroken by the sudden loss of Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson. A lifelong educator, advocate, and proud West Tampa native, she brought compassion, strength, and a deep love for her community into every role she held — including as Chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency and City Councilwoman for District 5,” Tampa Firefighters Local 754 wrote in a social media post. “Tampa Firefighters had the privilege of working alongside Councilwoman Henderson and witnessing her passion for public service. Her leadership and voice will be deeply missed.”

A special election will be held to fill the seat of Henderson, who had 15 months remaining in her term, Florida Politics reported. Under the city charter, the city must call for a special election within 10 days of the vacancy of a seat.

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