Thomas F. Henry of Remsenburg Dies January 8

Thomas F. Henry of Remsenburg died on January 8. He was 77.

Born April 17, 1945, to Michael B. Henry and Mary (McGowan) Henry, he grew up with his siblings, Mary, and Michael in Park Slope, Brooklyn. His friends described him as generous, perceptive, and unassuming. He was considered a wise and caring soul.

After four years of service in the U.S. Army, he became an air traffic controller, eventually finding his way to Suffolk County government. He retired as a senior probation officer, overseeing caseloads during his career. He was appointed to serve a term as assistant to the director of probation. He loved politics, was very knowledgeable and was a participant on many levels, his family said.

He cherished the time he shared with his life partner, Harriet, at the Swordfish Beach Club, spending time poolside reading and listening to Yankees baseball. An avid reader, he always had a book to recommend or to share. The couple was often seen taking long strolls on the beach in search of sea glass.

The couple set out to fulfill a shared dream to visit national parks. In a determined way, ignoring all the obstacles, they spent two years on unpredictable adventures with many stories of unforeseen snowstorms, beautiful sunrises in the canyons, and magical terrain that they would capture in their hearts and photos. Sharing special moments, just the two of them, like the sunrise at the Grand Canyon.

The couple shared a passion for wildlife. In the fall, they took daily walks at the Quogue Wildlife Refuge. On chilly winter days, the geese greeted them at the gate knowing they would have a stash of cracked corn. A daily outing also included sitting in the car, having lunch, and watching the osprey nest in Westhampton. They shared six seasons with their osprey family. As the osprey migrated, the couple’s visits continued daily through winter enjoying the wildlife and beauty of the wetlands and adjacent beach. It was a place Henry loved, where he found peace and comfort in his life.

He is survived by his life partner Harriet; his sister Mary and husband Vincent Kelley; niece Julia and her husband Jesse Mac Donald; and nephew Brendan; and his cousins, James and Grace Gordon and Carol Gordon. He was predeceased by his brother and best friend Michael; and his second favorite girl, Maggie, which the couple rescued from a shelter.

The family wished to thank Sally, Kerry and Judy, who shared their family Christmas that continued for the past l5 years. Their love, care and support are a true blessing, the family said.

In lieu of a wake, a July gathering at the Swordfish Beach Club, with a memorial service, officiated by Reverend Kerry, is planned.

A donation to the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, East End Hospice, or Group for the East End, would be appreciated.