Roberta J Henderson

Roberta Jane (Bush) Henderson, affectionately known as Bert or Bobbie, 70, passed away on March 3, 2025, in Ewing, New Jersey in the arms of her loving husband, Ernie. 

Born on November 7, 1954, in Somerville, New Jersey, Roberta was raised in Montgomery and attended local public schools. She left school to become a devoted stay-at-home mother but later completed her education online. She then pursued business-related courses at Mercer County Community College before embarking on a career as an office manager for three local businesses.

Roberta took great pride in being a "stay-at-home mom," even long after her children were grown. Eventually, she entered the workforce as an office receptionist at RE Carroll in Ewing. She later became an office manager at Tyger Scientific, where she expanded her knowledge of the chemical industry and had the joy of working alongside her son for several years. Before retiring during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Roberta worked at RW Kennedy in Trenton, where she was able to enjoy the occasional lunch date with her daughter who worked nearby.

Roberta’s life was filled with love, laughter, and a passion for family and hobbies. In her younger years, she played co-ed volleyball with her husband and close friends. She later became a dedicated baseball mom to her son and was always a supportive softball wife to her husband—her enthusiasm for sports was passed down to all four of her grandchildren.

An avid reader of romance novels, Roberta also enjoyed playing BINGO with her mother, sisters, and friends until the allure of Atlantic City’s casinos captured more of her interest. Eventually, Parx Casino became her and Ernie’s preferred destination - visiting often with Roberta’s sister and their niece. The lights and sounds captured her imagination, not to mention the always supportive wallet of her favorite gambling partner! 

Cooking was another great joy in Roberta’s life. Inspired by cooking shows and the newest culinary trends, she loved experimenting with recipes and sharing meals with her family. Her granddaughters and special niece or sometimes a sister was often by her side as they indulged in delicious dishes together at home or in restaurants; some requiring road-trip miles to enjoy.  She had a particular fondness for eating crabs and even perfected her very own special dipping sauce. A self-proclaimed foodie at heart, Roberta savored both cooking and dining experiences—sometimes accompanied by a frozen margarita "just because." 

When she wasn’t reading or cooking, Roberta could often be found working on intricate 1,000- piece puzzles—another passion passed down to her grandchildren. Her and Ernie’s love for   puzzles reflected their patience and determination, qualities that defined many aspects of Roberta’s life. She and her husband took great pride in many of their completed works, often saving and displaying them in their home. 

Roberta shared an enduring love story with her husband, Ernie. Their bond began in the early 1970s and remained unshaken despite challenges and societal obstacles. Together, they built a life filled with unwavering devotion, raising two children and celebrating the arrival of four cherished grandchildren—the youngest of whom was born in their very home. Their love was steadfast until the end; Bert and Ernie were truly inseparable.

Bert is survived by her beloved husband and lifetime love Ernie; her daughter Holly; and her son Richie and his love Lynn. Roberta leaves to cherish memories her four always adored grandchildren: Marquis her eldest and only grandson, Jordan her traveler and her partner Nia, Samari her gentle one, and baby Jaylah her firecracker. Also, left to mourn her loss are Roberta’s twin brother, Edward Bush and his wife Denise, and sisters Garry Jean Warren and Myrtle Christian and her husband Pat. Roberta leaves her favorite niece who often shared the title of daughter, Nichole to help pass on stories. 

Roberta was predeceased by her parents Helen V. and Garrett D. Bush; two of her sisters Catherine R. Bush and Barbara Hale; as well as her two favorite sisters-in-law Barbara Porter and Mae Heath. Roberta is finally survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends…too numerous to name individually. 

Roberta’s memory, her loyalty, and her stubborn personality will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her legacy bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in her life’s journey. 

Roberta’s family wishes to thank all of those who have reached out by phone, text, or social media, sent a card of condolence, flowers or a plant, made a meal or simply stopped by for a chat or a hug. As we all grieve in our way, please know that each of you is appreciated and thought of fondly for your kindness. If it was not immediately said, be assured that your thoughtfulness and compassion are much needed, and you are loved all the more for it.

After cremation, the immediate family will close out Roberta's life with a private ceremony at home. A celebration of Roberta's life will be held at a later date, allowing all who knew, loved and respected Roberta to share memories, photos, stories and more.