James C. Hensley

James Clinton Hensley, 76, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, living out his last weeks at home with his wife and family.

He was born on July 6, 1950, in Dunlap, Virginia to the late Willie Martin and Barbara Allen Hinkle Hensley.

James proudly devoted much of his life to service, leadership, and mentorship. He served his country in the United States Army for twenty-three years, attaining the rank of E-7 and serving as a First Sergeant. During his military career, he was a Pathfinder and completed multiple deployments to Germany, experiences that became a meaningful chapter not only in his own life, but in the lives of his family, who accompanied him during his time overseas.

Following his retirement from the Army, James began another meaningful chapter of service at Fishburne Military School in Waynesboro, where he served as an ROTC instructor for twenty-two years. Throughout the Fishburne community and beyond, James was known simply and affectionately as “Top,” a name that became as much a part of him as the lasting relationships he formed throughout the years.

James took tremendous pride in the young men who passed through Fishburne during his years there. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, as he also dedicated his time and expertise to working with the school’s color guard and rifle team.

Retirement did little to lessen his devotion to the school or its cadets. James continued attending Fishburne events and remained a familiar and beloved member of the school community.

Away from his military and teaching careers, James enjoyed spending time on the golf course as well as visiting friends and family in the community. Whether serving his country, guiding a young cadet, supporting the school he loved, or enjoying a round of golf, he approached life with the same sense of commitment and camaraderie that defined him.

He is survived by his wife, Shyrl Dianne Paitsel Hensley, whom he married in 1972 and together they shared more than fifty years of marriage; his son, Scott Hensley; and his grandchild, Shyanne Hensley; his sisters, Bobbie Joyce Lovejoy, Shirley Crawford and her husband, Ronnie, and Sally Dean;

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Jackie, Robert, and Sonny Hensley.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton. All are warmly welcome to attend and pay their respects to James.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton with Pastor Stephen Henderson officiating.

Henry Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.