Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Virginia Dale Henson (Nov 2, 1898 – Mar 6, 1982), known as Virginia Hensley, was an American serial killer convicted of six murders in Los Angeles (1950s–60s), suspected of up to 25 killings over 17 years.
Born in Weston, WV; impoverished, abused childhood; ran away, became a prostitute. 1944: convicted of killing boyfriend, sentenced to life, paroled 1954.
After release, resumed prostitution, heavy drinking. Lived with abusive Elmer Hensley. 1957: first victim, 70-year-old Bessie Moore (strangled, jewelry taken). Five more elderly women killed. Arrested 1961 for Dorothy Young's murder. Convicted, sentenced to death, later overturned on appeal; released on bail.
Dubbed "Lady Strangler" and "Black Widow." 1963 trial: guilty on six counts; psychiatrists diagnosed psychopathy.
Died of lung cancer in 1982 on Death Row at Central California Women's Facility. Only woman ever executed in San Quentin's gas chamber.