Henry P. Edgar Jr.

Birth and Early Life

Henry was born on April 22, 1946, in Gadsden, Alabama, to MSgt Henry P. Edgar, Sr. and Nellie B. Edgar, both of whom preceded him in death. He was the cherished brother of Dorothy J. Skinner (deceased) and Air Force Major (Ret.) Joseph D. Edgar.

As a proud member of an Air Force family, Henry’s early years were marked by travel across the world alongside his parents and siblings. He completed his high school education in Japan before the family settled in Ozark, Alabama, following his father’s distinguished military service career. Henry went on to pursue higher education in Troy, Alabama, where he began shaping the foundations of his lifelong commitment to service.

Career and Life Achievements

After earning his college degree, Henry embarked on a remarkable 36-year career with the American National Red Cross, serving in the specialized Armed Forces Department. His work supported active-duty military personnel, retirees, and their families across the globe.

Throughout his distinguished tenure, Henry held numerous leadership roles, including Deputy Director and Commanding Director at various military installations across the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia. His assignments took him to countries such as Germany, Turkey, Italy, England, Vietnam, and South Korea, where he worked closely with all branches of the Department of Defense.

Henry’s exemplary leadership and dedication were especially evident during his service in the Persian Gulf War, Operations Desert Storm, and Operation Desert Shield in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. His career embodied the spirit of service, compassion, and patriotism. A job well done, and a life well lived. Thank you for your service, Henry.

Upon his retirement in 2006, Henry embraced a new chapter of life. Together with his wife, Hien, he shared homes in Atlanta, Georgia, and later in Houston, Texas, where they enjoyed their golden years surrounded by family and friends. Henry found great joy in watching his beloved granddaughters grow and flourish into young women.

Family

Henry is survived by his devoted wife, Hien; his loving daughter, Michelle; his son-in-law, Andrew; and his cherished granddaughters, Isabel (16) and Alexandra (13) Barreto.

He is also remembered with love by a large extended family across the United States, Europe, and Asia, as well as by countless friends whose lives he touched with kindness, wisdom, and generosity.

Personal Interests and Faith

Faith, family, and service were at the heart of Henry’s life. He devoted his time and talents to helping others, guided by compassion and an unwavering sense of duty.

In his leisure, Henry enjoyed reading, swimming, traveling, visiting family and friends, and savoring international cuisine—often accompanied by a glass of German Mosel Riesling or Italian Asti wine.

In his final days, Henry was surrounded by love, care, and prayer from dear friends in the BUNCO Club at Lakes of Bella Terra, spiritual companions from Saint Faustina Catholic Church, and the compassionate medical professionals at Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texas Medical Center, and Houston Methodist Hospital in Sugar Land.

Henry’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who offered their love, faith, and support throughout his journey.

“Thank you for loving me, praying for me, and believing in God’s miraculous intervention during my trial of faith. May God bless each and every one of you.”

Our family would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the love and care shown to us by not only friends and family, but the love from St. Faustina Catholic Church and St. Laurence Catholic Church. May God Bless you as richly as you have blessed our family.

— With love from Heaven,

Henry Edgar / “Opa” Edgar