PUXICO -- Paul J. Henson, 81, of Puxico died Saturday, May 22, 1999, at his home.

He was born June 29, 1917, at Bloomfield, son of Harvey Jasper and Viola Fulkerson Henson. He and Louise Griffin were married Feb. 22, 1941, at Vanduser.

Henson had been a route driver for Ozark Dairy in Dexter, and later worked at Puxico Mercantile Co. He was a licensed funeral director, and was manager of Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Puxico more than 30 years.

He was a member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church, 32nd Degree Scottish Rite, member and past master of Puxico Masonic Lodge 596 AF&AM.

Survivors include his wife; a son, Glenn Henson of Cedar Hill; two daughters, Pauletta Reese of Conway, Ark., Nelda Burge of Puxico; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by three sisters and five brothers.

Friends may call at Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Puxico after 5 p.m. today. A Masonic service will be held at 7.

Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Elders Ernie Cates, Don Adams, Jerry Park and the Rev. Paul Roberts will officiate. Burial will be in Puxico Cemetery.