Teddy Leon Henry

SACATON - Teddy Leon Henry Sr., 62, died on Jan. 6, 2014.

Mr. Henry, also known as Big Ted, was born in Mesa on Nov. 22, 1951, and enjoyed an adventurous life. He was a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation of Oklahoma. Throughout his years he met several people that he called friends and always seemed to be there when one was in need or in need of some friendly advice. He was devoted to his family and a hero to some.

His passions were listening to his music, reading and spending time with his family. He also loved to take spur-of-the-moment "road trips." He worked for 27 years at the Bureau of Indian Affairs before retiring in November 2011 as the irrigation manager of the Colorado River Agency in Parker. A Government Accountability Office audit recognized his management skills, and the project received top ranking for the best managed and operated BIA irrigation project in the nation. He also was recognized at retirement as the BIA Irrigation Employee of the Year for 2011. He touched many lives with his witty sense of humor and straightforward and honest opinions.

He is survived by his wife, Cecelia; three sons, Joshua Henry, Cecil Jackson and Teddy Henry II; nine brothers, Sonny Henry, Doug Henry, Tommy Henry, Claude Henry, Jimmy Henry, Darryl W. Rhodes, Robin Rhodes, Robert Rhodes and Dwight Rhodes; seven sisters, Nettie Morris, Vicki Rutledge, Floanne Livingston, Cornelia Eschief, Georgene Jackson, Marjorie Lewis and Jo Ellen Loutzenhuiser; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jess Henry and Virginia Webb; a son, Erwin Jackson III; a grandson, Erwin Jackson IV; and four sisters, Joanne Henry, Wendelyn Rhodes, Della Walker and Margaret Armstrong.

The wake service will be Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. at the District 3 Service Center. The graveside service will be Saturday at 9 a.m. in Sacaton East Cemetery.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel is in charge of arrangements.