James F. Henderson, an attorney who for decades represented The Arizona Republic and The Phoenix Gazette in libel actions and First Amendment cases, died May 27, 2007 at the age of 85.

James Forney Henderson was born in Minonk, IL, on October 10, 1921.  After serving in the Navy in World War II he took bachelor's and law degrees from Northwestern University and was admitted to the Bar in 1948.

From 1950 to 1992 he practiced with the firm, Gust, Rosenfeld, and Henderson in Phoenix and was a managing partner in that firm. 

He is survived by his beloved wife Sonja, his son James Dale Henderson, daughters Lynda Hopper, Diane Barclay, Deborah and Shelley Smith and three grandchildren. There will be no services. His family suggests contributions be made to the Northwestern University School of Law, 357 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611.

Published in The Arizona Republic from 6/6/2007 - 6/10/2007.