Lillie Bright Hensley's Obituary
Lillie Bright Hensley, a devoted Christian, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on November 3, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee.
Born in Dyersburg, Tennessee on March 16, 1936, Lillie Bright lived a life rooted in faith, family, and love. She was raised in Dyersburg and attended the University of Mississippi. Her brother John Anderson Johnston from Dyersburg preceded her in death.
Lillie Bright was the wife of the late Russell “Deek” Hensley and a devoted mother to Rusty Hensley and Mary Bright Adams, all of whom also preceded her in death.
Lillie Bright is survived by her loving daughter, Laura Beth Matson, who was a constant source of joy and companionship in her later years. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her seven grandchildren – Carl Coers Adams (Coers), Russell Johnston Hensley (John), Mary Tipton Adams, William Hunt Hensley (Hunt), Anna Lewis Matson Jackson, Rebecca Rives Matson (Rives) and Bennett Lee Matson.
She is also survived by ten great-grandchildren – Russell McKinley Hensley, Hays Johnston Hensley, Wilson Jordan Hensley, Lucille Frances Hensley, William Coers Adams, Hyatt Patrick Adams, Jack Wilson Hensley, George Hunt Hensley, Robert Briggs Jackson and Adelaide Louise Jackson - each of whom she adored deeply and prayed for daily.
Her unwavering faith, gentle spirit, and boundless love for her family will be remembered by all who knew her. Lillie Bright’s life was a testament to grace, kindness, and the enduring strength of a mother’s heart.
A graveside service will be held to honor her life and legacy at Memorial Park Cemetery on Monday, November 10th at 11 am.
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