Henry Leon Friend

Henry Leon Friend, 83, passed from this life on Saturday, March 4, 2023. Henry was born March 20, 1939, in Moon, Oklahoma to Henry Preston Friend and Viola May (Kates). He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1965. Following his military service, Henry served his community as a firefighter; he was known as a real helper and had a heart for civil service, if Henry saw someone that needed help, he would not even wait for them to ask for assistance, but instead would help them right away. Henry worked as a fireman for General Dynamics for 8 years, Carswell Air Force Base as head of crash rescue for 19 years, and then for Bell Helicopter for 10 years. He had a work ethic that was rare to find, often working 16-hour days back-to-back without complaint. He loved to play just as much as he enjoyed his work. Henry was a member of Parker County Cruisers, loved antique cars, going to car shows, cruising, and even played basketball into his 50's. Henry leaves behind a wonderful legacy and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Viola Friend; stepmother, Floy Friend; sister and brother-in-law, Jean Minyard and Robert Minyard; and stepbrother, Phillip Hubbard.

Henry is survived by his beloved wife of 61 very blessed years, Patsy Friend of Weatherford, Texas; son, Berry Friend; daughter, Donna Silva and husband, Robert; granddaughters, Victoria Friend and Lillian Friend; great-grandchildren, Hudson and Henry; sister, Shirley Messner; brother, Joseph Clifton Friend; and numerous other relatives and friends.

A memorial service honoring Henry will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 17, 2023, at Galbreaith Pickard Hilltop Chapel, 4941 I-20 Frontage Rd, Willow Park, Texas 76087, officiated by Lynn Crosslin.