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By Elisabeth Altamirano-Smith | Community Columnist 

Gospel music groups, Canaanland and The Waltons will sing Saturday, July 9 at 6 p.m. at Jemison City Complex to benefit a local family in need Clint and Phyllis Henson. The Hensons have been long-time residents of Chilton County and familiar friendly faces within the community throughout the years. Clint worked in management at Jemison Piggly Wiggly for 23 years as well as serving as a member of Jemison City Council, Sheriff’s Reserve for 16 years and co-founder of Jemison Rescue #4.

Clint, age 78, suffered a massive stroke in December that he has not recovered from. His wife, Phyllis, age 76, uses a walker to ambulate after two unsuccessful hip replacement surgeries.

Friends from the community are rallying behind the Hensons with support and financial help in efforts to give back the good deeds they have given the community over the years.

Family friend Barbara Grace, who is helping to organize the event, knows the Henson by mutually attending Grace Life Church and occasionally gives them rides to church since neither of the Hensons are able to drive.

“Phyllis called me back in December when Clint went to the E.R. and asked me to pray with her,” said Grace. “If he gave to our community, we should give back to him. That’s what ‘community’ should be about.”

Grace contacted her friend, Anita Cleckler, who also knows the Hensons and together they began planning the benefit singing. Cleckler’s family will also represent the Canaanland group. 

“We are very excited about the singing,” said Phyllis. “We are looking forward to hearing both groups sing, but especially Canaanland. We have watched them grow up and they are like family to us.”

The event is free but a love offering will be accepted for the Henson’s medical needs.

“Let’s support this couple, Mr. Clint & Mrs. Phyllis Henson in their time of need,” said Grace. “They surely have been a blessing to our communities through the years!”