Anthony(Tony) Carl Hensley's Obituary
Anthony (Tony) Carl Hensley, 66, of Concord, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 3, 2026.
Born on December 1, 1959, in Gaston County, North Carolina, Tony was the son of the late Lewis Avery Hensley and Freeda Delores Deputy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepson, Doug Childers.
Tony believed it was never too late to pursue your goals. At the age of 53, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Clinical Research from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, graduating magna cum laude. This achievement was a source of great pride and reflected his perseverance, discipline, and love of learning. He went on to build a meaningful career as a Clinical Research Analyst, where he was respected for his intelligence, attention to detail, and dedication to his work.
Tony was an adventurous outdoorsman who found joy in nature. He especially enjoyed kayaking, sport shooting, fishing, camping, and photography. He also had a passion for cooking and took pride in sharing meals with those he loved. Known for his intelligence and great sense of humor, Tony brought light to those around him. He was kind-hearted and generous, maintaining a positive attitude that inspired everyone who knew him.
During his time in Wilmington, North Carolina, Tony organized many competitive skeet shooting events in support of local charities.
Those left to cherish his memory include the love of his life, his wife of 40 years, Beverly Ann Bishop Hensley; his sister, Shelly Gynn (Jon); his brother, Ed Crafton; his stepdaughter, Amie Childers; his aunts, Mary Deputy, Ruth Loeb, and Annette Neal; his nieces, Jamie Cruz (Daniel), Madison Starnes (Thomas), Jaycie Hayden (Housten), Morgan Crafton, Emmie Crafton, and Sadie Crafton; and his great-nephews, Aaron Cruz, Hudson Hayden, and Easton Hayden.
Those who knew Tony will remember him as resilient, thoughtful, and quietly inspiring. He shared many lifelong friendships and will be deeply missed by his many friends, as well as the family who knew and loved him.
A service to celebrate Tony’s life will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be sent to: Via Health Partners Hospice Care P.O. Box 470408 Charlotte, NC 28247
UNC Wilmington College of Health and Human Services 601 South College Road Wilmington, NC 28403-5685
Davis Chapel-Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care is serving the Hensley family.
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