TAMPA, Fla — Tampa City Council honored and remembered Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson at its Community Redevelopment Agency meeting on Thursday.
A large red bow draped her chair in the chamber as council members, one by one, remembered Henderson.
WATCH: Tampa City Council paid tribute to Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson
A video tribute was played during the meeting, showcasing her contributions to the community as an educator and on the City Council.
MORE: Tampa City Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson dead at 60
Mayor Jane Castor reflected on Henderson's contributions to the city and said she could be described as a "force of nature," and discussed her contribution to the community.
Watch Mayor Castor's speech at City Council
Speaking through tears, friend Sandra Cooke expressed her sorrow.
"I love her. I love her family. I am family. Because she made me feel that way. We're going to miss her. Thank you so much for this opportunity," she said.
Rick Kinsey, another friend, shared his admiration for Henderson.
"She had the biggest heart in the world. That's just who she was. I'm glad she got to become a councilwoman. I'm glad she got to see her HBCU Day happen," he said.
Darlene Johnson, Henderson's legislative aide, fondly recalled moments spent with Henderson. She used her time at the podium to speak directly to Councilwoman Henderson.
"Boss lady, thank you for agreeing to go on a ride-along. It was amazing. My joy to watch you roll your window down and say, 'I'm your councilwoman; tell me what you want me to know and what you don't want me to know.'"
Colleagues also highlighted Henderson's unwavering dedication to her constituents. Councilman Guido Maniscalco couldn't hold back his tears either, calling her death a nightmare.
"We haven't stopped thinking about Councilmember Henderson who was here just a week ago. I can't even look in that direction because I picture her in this seat."
Constituents who addressed the council echoed the sentiments of those who knew Henderson best. They also called on the rest of the council to see through the many projects Henderson was working on.
"She knew that I was serious about the yellow jackets. You talk about continuing the legacy—the expectation is that was one thing she was working on, and you guys should continue that legacy," said Robin Lockett.
"She didn't serve long, but she didn't have to because she served quality. She would be the voice of reason, and I hope going forward, we can try to keep that reason," said Joe Robinson.
Funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal church.
Pasco County woman trying to rebuild mobile home after hurricanes
"I cried, of course, because I've worked very hard getting it nice, which has been difficult for me since I lost my husband and being alone,” Kelly Welty said.
Welty's mobile home lost its roof during Hurricane Milton. She said it was the only one in the Buena Vista community to get totaled by a tornado.
