Obituary: Joseph Hugh Henry, 41, of Shelton

SHELTON, CT - It’s with heavy hearts and sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Joseph Hugh Henry on March 27, 2021 in his Shelton CT residence.

Joe, as he was known to his friends, was the son of William Henry of Stratford. Also mourning his passing are his two sisters, who both reside in Milford, CT, Missy (Bobbie) and Kimberly (Matt) and her two children, Joe’s niece Kayla and nephew Kevin, Uncle John Henry, Aunt Linda Vignola (Mike) and cousins Mike Vincelette (Sandy, Renee, and Ryan), and Nick Henry. Joe was predeceased by his mother Gail Henry, both sets of grandparents and sister in law Bobbie Pastore.

Joe was born on September 13, 1979 and lived in Stratford until moving to Shelton in 2009.

In his younger years he was an avid gymnast. He actively participated in competitions throughout New England with Polly’s Gym in Stratford. Joe won numerous medals and trophies for his efforts and dedication.

As he grew older, he found a new love after seeing a UCONN game with her sister Missy and her high school team. He was a devoted fan of the Women’s Huskies and the New York Liberty (WNBA.) To Joe, a perfect Sunday was with his dad going to Storrs, Hartford, or New York to watch the ladies play, followed by a nice steak dinner in a local steakhouse. We made many a trip to his enjoyment.

He believed in family support, learned when his sisters went to his gymnastic competition. And in return he attended numerous soccer, basketball, softball, and dance competitions.

His true passion was softball. He enjoyed the Raybestos Brakettes, but to be on the field himself in any position was true bliss. He actively played in the Southern New England Friendship League where Sam recruited him. He met his best friend Rob through this league. They played on Sundays around Connecticut for many years. He enjoyed the game, win or lose, as long as he had his ice cold Bud Lime waiting for him after the games. He made many great friends through softball and loved going out of state for the play offs; that was his idea of the perfect vacation.

Joe started work in customer service with Edwards and then Shaw’s in Shelton. He came into his own when working in the banking industry, first with North American Bank and Trust and then its successor.

Joe was a sensitive, caring soul who would help anyone in need, as demonstrated by giving rides to work, doctor, grocery shopping or even babysitting the children of his high school friends, his two best girls Jessica and Brianne. He was Uncle Joe, the fellow who cared about everyone.

Joe, your memory will be cherished and held in the hearts by your family and many friends you left behind. We know you will be at the field of dreams waiting for us to arrive, so you can cheer us with your witty comments and loving, caring hugs.

This obituary would not be complete without a Thank You to Rob Mannino who went to Joe’s apartment when he didn’t answer his calls and then contacted the family. He also assisted the family in the behind-the-scenes little things that needed to be done. Also recognition to Sandy Ruzicka, best friend and partner of dad, for helping us get through this shocking and trying time.

The outpouring of love and sympathy on various forms of social media has been deeply appreciated and overwhelming, with schoolmates, coworkers, members of various softball teams all remembering the gentle guy with the big heart. He will be profoundly missed.

Joe and his sisters had a special bond, knowing they could count on each other for anything, a bond people would envy. We are proud that he touched so many people in a positive manner in such a short time here on earth. So, when you go to a family event and children are running about or playing ball, take a moment and remember Joe with a silent pray.

In lieu of flowers, any contributions can be made to the Southern New England Friendship League. Checks can be made SNEFSL, INC 1771 Post Rd E #163 Westport CT 06880.

He will be cremated at Abbey Cremation in Rocky Hill. Due to the suddenness of Joe’s passing, and the Covid crisis, we will be forgoing calling hours and the burial will be later, when arrangements are finalized and he is placed to rest at Gate of Heaven in Trumbull CT.