Edward Brown Henslee was born on November 14, 1942, in Flint, Michigan. He spent his early years in Evanston and Chicago before moving to Woodstock, Illinois, where he attended middle school and high school. During childhood and adolescence, he also spent summers at the Henslee family farm near Nashville, Tennessee. He later lived in Woodstock and Crystal Lake, Illinois. Henslee was married to Sally Ann Tibbetts from October 20, 1979, until her death.
Henslee attended the University of Chicago, Lake Forest College, and DePaul College of Law. He also briefly served in the Merchant Marine before pursuing his long legal career.
Henslee practiced law for approximately four decades with the Chicago firm Henslee, Monek & Henslee, where he was a partner. His practice included advocacy for railroad employees and other transportation-industry workers. The firm's representation of railroad workers and unions placed his work within litigation involving federal railroad-injury law and transportation regulation. His professional address was 30 North La Salle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60602.
Practiced law for approximately four decades advocating for railroad and other transportation-industry workers.
Helped preserve the original McHenry County Courthouse in Woodstock, Illinois, and helped establish The Old Courthouse Inn in the historic building.
Served the recovery community for more than 42 years by supporting people seeking recovery from addiction.
Henslee was a Master Freemason associated with Wilmette Park Lodge No. 931. He also served the recovery community for more than 42 years as a friend of Bill W., sharing experience and support with people seeking recovery from addiction.
Henslee was remembered for his sense of humor, contagious laugh, appreciation of paradox, and distinctive storytelling. His stories drew on family memories, legal experiences, Merchant Marine adventures, and encounters from his education and community life. Friends also associated him with the playful nickname “El Mono,” given by card-playing companions.
Quotes from others about the person
He was remembered by friends and family for his wisdom, subtle humor, storytelling, and generosity toward people in recovery.
Henslee cared for koi fish and mallard ducks, enjoyed playing Gin Rummy, and participated in efforts to preserve the original McHenry County Courthouse in Woodstock, Illinois. He helped establish The Old Courthouse Inn, described as the first restaurant to occupy the historic courthouse. He was also interested in family history, storytelling, and service to people recovering from addiction.
Henslee was married to Sally Ann Tibbetts Henslee. He maintained close relationships with his wife's children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as with his sisters Ann Henslee and Sue Samet and his siblings and extended family. His parents were Edward “Ned” Henslee and Maria Haven Henslee, and his brother Mark C. Henslee preceded him in death.
