Henrietta Birdsong
April 26, 1938 – December 14, 2024

Henrietta Birdsong, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on December 14, 2024, at the age of 86, surrounded by her family. Henrietta's final days were a testament to her courage, grace, and unyielding love for those she held dear.

Henrietta was born in Glendale, Arizona, to Arthur and Mary Louise Prall. At the age of 13, she moved with her family to Blythe, California, where her life's most cherished love story began. At 14, she met Paul "PL" Birdsong, whom she described as the best-looking man she had ever seen. By 15, she was dating him, and at 16, they married, beginning a 60-year union of extraordinary devotion and partnership. Together, they raised three children: Paul, Madeline, and Leslie.

Henrietta attended Palo Verde High School, where she was a cheerleader and a vibrant presence. Her kitchen became the heart of her home, a place where countless cherished memories were created. Her Christmas sugar cookies and pies were legendary, and her home became a gathering place for neighborhood friends and friends alike. Known for her quick wit and playful humor, Henrietta's card games were as much about laughter as they were about competition – though everyone knew to keep an eye on her during card games, as her competitive streak sometimes included cards mysteriously disappearing.

A pillar of the community, Henrietta gave generously of her time and talents. She was a Girl Scout leader for 10 years and dedicated an incredible 60 years to Blythe Little League, where she was known for passionately debating umpire calls and serving as the self-appointed scorekeeper. She was also a proud and active member of California Women for Agriculture (CWA) and many other organizations, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.

Henrietta's greatest joy came from supporting her family. Whether it was a special occasion, sports game, dance recital, or school activity, she never missed an event involving her children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren as long as she was able. Her love and dedication were unmatched, and her presence will be deeply missed.

Henrietta is survived by her daughter, Madeline Adcock (Russ); her brother, Joe Prall (Connie); her grandchildren, Paul Birdsong (Marina), Robert Birdsong (Brittney), Dakota Doyle (Austin), Taylor Adcock (Trevor), and Stevi Nelson (Wayne); and 16 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul "PL" Birdsong; her son, Paul "Pee Wee" Birdsong; her daughter, Leslie Nelson; her grandson, John Leslie Birdsong; and her brothers, George Prall, Art Prall, and Tommy Prall.

Funeral services will be held at Frye Chapel & Mortuary on December 23, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., with graveside services to follow at Palo Verde Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Henrietta's honor.

Henrietta's legacy lives on through her family, her faith, and the countless lives she touched. Her strength, love, and humor will remain in our hearts forever. She lived a life full of love, laughter, and purpose, and her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her.