On April 3, 2025, Tallahassee lost a beloved figure, Dr. William Douglas “Doug” Henderson, Jr., who passed away at 85 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Dr. Henderson, known to many as a giant in stature and spirit, was a former Florida State athletic physician who left behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and groundbreaking contributions to sports medicine.
Dr. Doug Henderson Was A Hometown Hero
Born on August 11, 1939, in Tallahassee, Doug Henderson was a native.
He grew up exploring the streets of his hometown and graduated from Leon High School.
His deep roots in the community shaped his dream to build a premier sports medicine clinic right where he started.
That vision became a reality, and his impact stretched beyond Tallahassee, touching athletes across the Big Bend area.
Doug was familiar with the sidelines of Florida State University (FSU), Florida A&M, and countless high school fields.
With a warm smile and steady hands, he devoted endless hours to helping athletes get back on their feet and into the game, whether they were stars or just kids chasing a dream.
After serving as a surgeon in the U.S. Air Force, he completed his cardiovascular residency at the Mayo Clinic in 1967.
His passion for orthopedics led him to Emory University, where he finished his orthopedic surgery residency in 1973 and earned a sports medicine knee fellowship that same year.
At Emory, he met Dr. Tom Haney, a kindred spirit who shared his vision of bringing top-notch care to Tallahassee.
Together, they made history. In 1974, Doug and Tom founded Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic (TOC), the first practice in North Florida dedicated solely to orthopedics.
They offered free post-practice exams to players from all kinds of sports, establishing a tradition of care that put people over profit.
As FSU’s primary team physicians, Doug and Tom became trusted pillars for the Seminoles, ensuring every athlete received the attention they deserved.
Doug’s Career Was Impressive, But Those Who Knew Him Say His Personality Was Even Bigger
He was inducted into the FSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010 and celebrated for his skill and humanity.
Friends recall his positivity even while fighting Parkinson’s, and he kept smiling.
At Sweat Therapy’s Rock Steady Boxing program, Doug worked out alongside others with the disease, including Roger, the husband of one admirer who remembered his kindness.
Tributes poured in after his passing. One person commented,
“Just loved this giant of a man! He taught me so much and his wife, Judi, is also a leader. Love them both! He should be honored for who he was and how he touched and cared for so many! RIP Dr H💙🥰”
Via Facebook
Another added
“Dr. Henderson was a very special man and Dr. He was very kind and he always was smiling. My husband, Roger, enjoyed working out with him at Rock Steady Boxing at Sweat Therapy. My deepest sympathy to his wife, family and friends. “
Via Bryant Funeral Home
A third wrote,
“Very sorry to hear this. He was a great doctor. Condolences to his family.”
Via Facebook
Doug leaves behind his longtime wife, Judi, their children, grandchildren, and a wide circle of loved ones.
His family extended beyond home to include the athletes he mentored, the colleagues he inspired, and the community he served.
TOC still stands as evidence of his dream, and his influence echoes in every athlete who steps onto the field, healthy and ready, thanks to his care.
Tallahassee won’t be the same without him, but his spirit lives on in the lives he touched.
Rest in peace, Dr. Henderson.
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