The 2025 Henson-Nevels Family Reunion was held this past Sunday, August 10th at Kensington Metropark in Milford, MI, and although it was nearly 90 degrees, the day was full of love, laughter, and connection. While we didn’t have the usual Saturday crowd, those who came truly made it special.
Some family members dropped in just to say hello before heading to work or making the long drive back home, and we appreciated every moment we had with each of you.
Feast Mode: Activated
We gathered for lunch around 2:30 PM and let’s just say, the food did NOT disappoint! We enjoyed:
- BBQ ribs & chicken
- Lasagna
- Baked beans
- A variety of fresh salads
- And so much more…
Kristel brought her famous chili bake with cornbread, along with her fan-favorite brownies (which didn’t last long). In fact, there were so many sweets and chips left over that we started giving them away! Luckily, a few family members were able to take some back to their workplaces to share the love (and the sugar).
Raffles, Laughs & Love
As always, Teresa was on raffle ticket duty—keeping things lively. The running joke? Kristel was banned from buying tickets this year because she always wins! 😂
Tharron joined the fun by announcing ticket numbers with his booming voice, while little Madison delivered each winner their $25 gift card with the sweetest smile.
There were multiple winners, but Terrence took the crown with three wins! Better luck next year, Kristel! 😉
Andi also continued the backpack giveaway tradition in Leslie’s absence, and we’re happy to share that three backpacks were given away this year, keeping the spirit of giving strong.
In Loving Memory
With deepest sympathy, we share that Ross Hill Jr., beloved husband of Gail (Simmons) Hill, passed away on July 29, 2025. Please keep Gail and her family lifted in your prayers.
Funeral Arrangements:
James H. Cole Home for Funerals – NW Chapel
16100 Schafer Highway, Detroit, MI 48235
- Visitation: Friday, August 22
- Time: 4:00 – 7:00 PM
- Family Hour & Service: Saturday, August 23
- Family Hour: 12:30 PM
- Service: 1:00 PM
If you’d like to give a monetary contribution to support Gail and her family, you may send via:
- Zelle: gggail502@gmail.com
- CashApp: $gggail502
Drumroll Please…
During the reunion, Michelle made the big announcement for next year:
We’re heading back to Maryland in 2026 to return to the Josiah Henson Museum in North Bethesda!
Our 2024 trip to the museum in Canada was unforgettable—and we can’t wait to revisit the legacy of our family’s roots. Details and travel planning will be shared in upcoming newsletters.
One Last Thing…
If you traveled to Canada for last year’s reunion in 2024 and helped transport items, we’re kindly asking for your help:
A box containing our family games and reunion banner has gone missing, and we believe it may have been accidentally placed in someone’s car after the event. If you find it, please reach out so we can bring it back into the reunion rotation!