Frank Joseph Hedrick Sr.

He grew up in Eagle Pass, spending countless days at the family ranch in Quemado, TX with his grandparents and his uncle Cyrill (affectionately called “Tio”) who would have a lasting impact on all of our lives. From a very young age, he was fascinated with television and radio. He went on to graduate from Eagle Pass High School in 1955, then the University of Houston in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science in Radio and Television. He had a long career in the field he loved, including KCLW in Hamilton, Texas, then at KUHT, KUHF, KTRK, and finally retiring from KPRC in 2001. Among many other highlights, he was part of the first crew in the Astrodome in 1965, covering the preseason game between the Houston Astros and New York Yankees, witnessing Mickey Mantle’s first home run hit there. He was responsible for the Apollo 8 broadcast to England 1968, as it originated through KPRC, and he worked in the coverage of the Houston Oilers for many years.

He recounted many times how blessed he was to have Frances as his mother. As a child Frank was diagnosed with a condition that would lead to blindness and that there was nothing to be done. Frances wouldn’t accept that diagnosis and made it her mission to find the answer. Through her determination Frank was blessed to be one of the first recipients of cornea transplants in the country.

One of Dad’s favorite stories was going to the Victory Club with family in Piedras Negras and having a friendship with Ignacio Anaya Garcia, who was a cook at the club. In 1943, some ladies came in after the kitchen closed and he attempted to make them some food by melting some cheese over some fried corn tortillas cut into quarters with jalapenos. The ladies loved it and asked what it was called and he said, “Nacho Special” after his nickname. Frank recalled how Nacho was such a kind man and loved sharing his story about the man who invented nachos!

Our Dad went home to be with the Lord on May 17, 2026, at the age of 88. He was undoubtedly met by his beloved wife of 36 years, Jimlu, who preceded him in death in 2001. Not one day went by when he didn’t miss his bride - to this day, her side of the closet is as she left it. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Frank Joseph Hedrick, Jr. and daughter-in-law, Lorra Lee, Daryl Leon Hedrick and Michelle, and Luann Hedrick Nelson and son-in-law, Stan. He was also ‘Geepaw’ to his one and only grandchild, Amber Grace Nelson, whom he spoiled unapologetically.

Our Dad was full of kindness, generosity, and incredible love for his family, and will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, US, on May 29, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

A Committal Service will take place at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, US, on May 29, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.