Family Fondly Remembers Oklahoma Storm Chaser Killed In Tornado

By David Payne, News 9 Weather

HINTON, Oklahoma - Richard Henderson earned a living on the road as a truck driver. He often kept his eyes on the sky chasing storms; a passion that ended May 31, 2013.

"He was mesmerized by them," Richard's ex-wife, Amanda Brimage said.

Richard's love for weather turned into one of his favorite pastimes.

"He got involved when he was working with these guys who did chase," said Richard's mother, Dianna Henderson.

Richard rarely took a picture of a storm. He simply enjoyed watching them form.

"Every once and a while he would set up somewhere and watch from a distance," Dianna said.

On May 31, 2013, near El Reno, Richard got a little too close. He sent a picture to a friend moments before his family believes the killer tornado sucked him out of his pickup.

Richard leaves behind two sons, 11-year-old Robbie and 8-year-old Wyatt. They hang onto memories with their dad.

"We went roller skating and fishing and we want to the movies a lot," Robbie said.

And they built a cross, in memory of their dad.

"I just wanted to make it and put it out in my grandma's front yard," said Wyatt.

Nearly one year since their dad's death, the kids take the loss day by day.

"Every day's different," Amanda said. "Some days they act out and some days they're just mad. Some days they want their momma and just want to cuddle. I know why. They're doing remarkably well to be little kids."