Henry "Hank" Lee Merry

Hank graduated from DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis in 1957 and went on to attend the University of Notre Dame, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1961, followed by a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1962. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. He served honorably until 1966, including tours of duty in Antarctica and Vietnam.

Following his military service, Hank spent the majority of his professional career with Brown & Root, later known as Halliburton. His work took him around the world, and he lived in the Dominican Republic, England, and Norway. These experiences fostered his love of travel and deepened his appreciation for different cultures.

After retiring in 2000, Hank devoted more time to the interests, activities, and people he loved. A devout Catholic, he was an active member of St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land, where he served as a lector and shared his faith with the parish community. His Catholic faith remained a guiding force throughout his life. A proud Notre Dame alumnus, Hank was a devoted Fighting Irish football fan who loved cheering on his beloved Irish. He also enjoyed woodworking and fishing, two hobbies that brought him great joy. Hank generously shared his time and talents with others through Literacy Advance and the Archdiocese Learn English Ministry, always willing to lend a helping hand and make a difference in the lives of others.

Above all, Hank cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather who treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren. He and his beloved wife, Anne, shared 60 wonderful years of marriage and a love of traveling the world together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

In his later years, Hank faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease with the love and support of his family. He will be remembered for his deep Catholic faith, generous spirit, love of learning and travel, and his wonderfully corny sense of humor. His dramatic expressions and playful mannerisms could always bring a smile to those around him. Above all, Hank cherished the relationships he built and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know and love him.

Hank is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Anne; his sister, Elizabeth O’Daniel (Roger); his three children and their spouses, Laura Merry Kennedy (Dwain), Nicholas Lee Merry (Julie), and Jennifer Merry Polito (Charles); eight grandsons; two granddaughters; one great-grandson; and many loving nieces and nephews. His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy of faith, service, and love will live on through the generations who knew and loved him.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Grand Living at Riverstone and Anchor Hospice for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Hank and his family.

A Memorial Mass will be held on, Monday, November 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Laurence Catholic Church, 3100 Sweetwater Blvd. in Sugar Land, Texas.

Immediately following, all are invited to gather with the family and share remembrances of Henry during a reception to be held in the Parish Hall at St. Laurence Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the charity of your choice or to the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County in honor of Hank’s lifelong commitment to helping others.