The Henman family — Jackson (19), Kenny (16), Miranda (14), Conner (12), and their dad Casey — are a close-knit, caring family. They’re also a family reeling from an incomprehensible loss. Recently, their world changed forever when the kids lost their mom, Tracy, suddenly and tragically, the victim of domestic violence. In the wake of this heartbreak, they’ve been leaning on each other as they try to find a new normal.

Her family was her world

Tracy was a compassionate, creative, and adventurous soul — a bright light whose passing left a void that words can’t fill. Her family was her world, and she was their North Star, guiding them with love and laughter every day. A nurturer by nature, she mothered everyone, loving hard and laughing harder. Everyone misses her contagious laughter, her legendary humor, and the way she found joy in everything. Tracy’s motto was, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” That’s the spirit her family is holding onto now.

Finding comfort in shared memories

The Henmans have stayed close through the tragedy, finding comfort in each other and in the memories they share — time at their cabin, boating in the summer, cheering at baseball games. The kids each have their own passions: Jackson recently moved out and loves gaming and baseball, Kenny is an avid reader, Miranda loves makeup and hanging out with friends, and Conner, the youngest, is a video game enthusiast and Lego builder with a big imagination. And Casey? He’s doing his best to make sure his kids have what they need — and we hear he’s a pretty fair cook, too.

A teacher’s heart

Josh Stephens, Conner’s former teacher, nominated the Henmans after learning of their loss. He and Conner bonded over video games and their shared love of dogs, and when tragedy struck, Josh knew he wanted to help bring some light back into this resilient family’s life. UBT’s Magic Moments team agreed, and our incredible partners came together to spin some holiday magic for the Henmans.

Spreading holiday love

Each family member will receive hand-picked gifts that reflect their interests — from Lego sets for Conner and makeup for Miranda to Kindle Unlimited for Kenny and kitchen tools for Casey. Jackson will get essentials for his new home, including a mattress donated by 7-Day Furniture. The family will enjoy passes to the Lincoln and Omaha zoos and Wildlife Safari Park, Husker and Saltdogs baseball games, and fun outings like Prehistoric Putt and bowling. A new innertube will enhance fun at the cabin as the family builds new summer memories. Special inscribed tumblers engraved with Tracy's motto "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened" will help ensure Tracy’s inventive mind and creative spirit live on in a way her kids can treasure forever.

Jackson, Kenny, Miranda, Conner, and Casey, we wish you the comfort of your memories and joy in creating new ones. Happy holidays from UBT, Henman family!

A GoFundMe page has been established to help the Henman family with funeral and living expenses. Please visit to learn more or contribute. 

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If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available.

Contact Voices of Hope or Friendship Home of Lincoln for confidential support and resources.

If your family is grieving the loss of a loved one, Mourning Hope offers guidance and healing during difficult times.

You are not alone — reach out today.