OBITUARY: William Rodman Henry, 86, of Granite Shoals dies April 11, 0214

The Henry family sorrowfully announces the passing of William Rodman Henry of Deer Park and Granite Shoals, Texas, who died on April 11, 2014 at 11:05 a.m. at the age of 86.

Bill passed due to multiple organ shutdown at Seton Hospital in Round Rock with two of his boys by his side.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Betty Lou Sabo-Henry; four loving sons, Charlie, Jack, Billy and Mark; grandchildren, Brian, Matt, Sarah and Gus; as well as his brother Jack.

Bill Henry was born Oct. 15, 1927, in Alice, Texas. He graduated from Pasadena High School in 1946. He went on to attend the University of Houston until a professional scout saw him pitching softball.

Bill began his Major League Baseball career at the age of 24 in 1952 with the Boston Red Sox and retired from baseball in 1969 at the age of 41 playing for the Houston Astros.

Upon retiring from baseball, Bill went to work for the Houston Boatmen, ILA Local #1438, from which he retired. In April 2012, along with 11 other Pasadena High graduates, Bill was inducted into the Pasadena High School Hall of Fame during its Inaugural Induction Gala.

Baseball is in the family’s blood. Two days before his passing, Bill gave his youngest son, Mark, the “out” signal, telling him he was ready to go.

There will be a private family viewing 4-5 p.m. April 17 followed by a public viewing 5-8 p.m. at Pasadena Funeral Home, 2203 Pasadena Blvd. in Pasadena. A funeral service is 1 p.m. April 18 at the funeral home followed by a graveside service and an internment at South Park Cemetery, 1310 N. Main St. in Pearland, where Bill will be laid to rest with his parents and one of his siblings.