Tampa City Councilwoman Gwen Henderson Has Passed Away

TAMPA — The Tampa Bay Business Journal is reporting that Tampa City Councilwoman Gwen Henderson passed away Monday, June 9th.

“My mother was a fierce leader for the City of Tampa and especially for District 5,” wrote Ariel Amirah, Henderson’s daughter, on Instagram. “There are no words to express the pain of this loss. Please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.”

The cause of Henderson’s death is unknown at this time. She attended the City Council meeting on June 5th as normal and the Mayor’s office has not yet made public comment at this time. A special election will be held to fill her seat on the City Council as more than 15 months remain in her term.

Gwen Henderson represented Tampa City Council District 5, covering East Tampa and Downtown. She was first elected in 2023.