Henry Harrison Herrera MD

Henry Harrison Herrera, of San Antonio, Texas, entered into eternal rest at the age of 84, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 30, 1941, in San Antonio, Henry was the son of Mary Alice and Charles Herrera.

Henry shared almost 59 years with his wife, Virginia “Ginnie” McKenzie Herrera. He was a devoted father to Kelley Herrera and Cory Stephens (and her husband, Thomas), and a proud grandfather to Henry and Wayland Stephens, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda Carlisle, her husband Chuck Carlisle and Cindy Prindle, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

A lifelong learner and man of great discipline, Henry graduated from Jefferson High School in 1959 before earning his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from The University of Texas in 1964. He went on to complete medical school at The University of Texas, becoming an anesthesiologist in 1976. Henry practiced medicine with dedication and precision until his retirement in 2017, impacting countless lives through his care and expertise.

Throughout his distinguished career, Henry served as Assistant Clinical Professor of Anesthesia at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio from 1979 to 1990 and held leadership roles including Past President of the San Antonio Society of Anesthesiologists. He was also a respected member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Society of Anesthesiologists, Texas Medical Association, and Bexar County Medical Society. His work extended beyond the operating room as Medical Director of the San Antonio Impairment Center and as an instructor for the Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Henry approached life with intellectual curiosity, determination and a deep appreciation for science and learning. He was also fiercely competitive and athletic, excelling both on the field and the golf course. In 1957, he played on the San Antonio All Stars baseball team that advanced to the Colt League World Series in Ontario, California—an early reflection of his discipline and drive.

As a golfer, Henry achieved remarkable success over decades of play. In 1988, he won the Broadmoor Invitational and played in the US Amateur in Homestead VA. In 1990 played the old course at St Andrew’s. He went on to win back-to-back club championships at Oak Hills Country Club (1992–1993) and San Antonio Country Club (1994–1995), reflecting his consistency and competitive drive. He later qualified for and competed in multiple U.S. Senior Amateur Championships, including 1998 at Skokie Country Club and 2000 in Charlotte, North Carolina—a testament to his enduring skill and love of the game.

Beyond his professional and athletic accomplishments, Henry found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. He loved baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, and traveling—especially memorable adventures throughout Europe, including train rides through France and even driving across the Andes. He was also known for his extraordinary talent in the kitchen, crafting his “world-famous” pies. He would often say, “It’s just time and temperature,” a phrase that reflected both his attention to detail and his philosophy on life.

Henry also had a deep appreciation for fine French wine and curated an exceptional collection over the years. He took great pleasure in sharing it with family and friends, pairing good wine with good conversation, and creating moments that will be remembered and cherished.

He had a quick wit and a straightforward humor that made people smile. Known for saying, “I am what I am,” Henry lived authentically and with quiet confidence. He instilled in his family a lifelong love for the outdoors and conservation, ensuring that legacy would continue for generations.

In 2003, Henry became a proud and very involved grandparent to Henry and Wayland Stephens. As a grandfather, Henry gave himself the name "Old Fat Grandad" or "OFG". Over the last 23 years he took his grandsons on weekend trips to ranches, Rockport for guided fishing, overseas to Spain and France, a road trip from San Antonio to Maryland to visit Aunt Linda, with a stop in New Orleans for fine dining, of course. He always took time to brag on his grandsons amongst his friends at the Country Club, praising them for their accomplishments.

Above all, Henry was a man of faith who trusted in the Lord and lived a life marked by dedication—to his family, his profession, and the many blessings he was given. His legacy is one of integrity, discipline, and enduring love.

A service celebrating Henry’s life will be held at Laurel Heights United Methodist Church at noon on June 16, 2026. A reception will follow at San Antonio Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Texas Parks and Wildlife, or that a living tribute be made through the planting of a tree in a state or national park, honoring Henry’s deep love for the outdoors.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23