Albert Russ "Rusty" Hensley

Rusty Hensley, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on January 21, 2025, at his home in Rockwall, Texas. Born on August 14, 1944, in Tahoka, Texas, he was the beloved son of Pat Neff Hensley and Jo Williams Hensley. Rusty’s life was a testament to the values of love and kindness that he held dear.

Rusty’s journey began in the small town of Tahoka, where he was raised in a nurturing environment that shaped the wonderful man he would become. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, demonstrating his commitment to the nation and its values. Following his service, Rusty found his lifelong partner in Mary Farnsworth Hensley, marrying her in Draw, Texas on June 11, 1965. Their union was blessed with three children and would stand as a beacon of enduring love and support.

A man of intellect and ambition, Rusty graduated from Texas Tech in 1968, embarking on a successful career that spanned several major oil companies. In the latter 15 years of his professional life, he shared his expertise as a consultant, respected by colleagues for his insight and integrity.

Rusty’s interests extended beyond his professional achievements. He was a passionate radio ham operator since the age of 14 and an active member of the Rockwall ham operators club. This hobby allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life and across the globe, a reflection of his curiosity and desire to engage with the world around him. He was also a member of SIPES, the Society of Professional Earth Scientists. 

Travel was another of Rusty’s joys, as he relished the opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories with his family. He especially loved visiting the beach in Florida, where the tranquility of the ocean provided a backdrop for precious moments with his grandchildren. 

Rusty’s legacy is carried on by his devoted spouse, Mary Hensley of Rockwall, TX, his children, Bryan Hensley and wife Renee of McKinney, TX, Marla Wendt of Fort Worth, TX, and Nathan Hensley of Rockwall, TX. His grandchildren, Lillian Wendt, Travis Wendt and wife Kayla of Fort Worth, TX, and Colin Hensley of McKinney, TX, will miss his guiding presence. The joy of his life was further expanded with the arrival of his great-grandchild, Theo Wendt of Fort Worth, TX. 

He is also survived by his sister, Lesa Enlow and husband Bill of Wichita Falls, TX, and his brother, Randy Hensley and wife Donelle of Draw, TX, who will remember him with fondness and pride. 

Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, Pat, and Jo Hensley, who instilled in him the values of love and kindness that he exemplified throughout his life, and by his brother, Kenny Hensley. 

A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Reflections-Rest Haven Funeral Home-Rockwall. 

A second visitation will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM at the Combest Family Funeral Home in Tahoka. Final rites and interment will be in the Gail Cemetery on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 1 PM under the personal care and direction of Combest Family Funeral Homes.