Henry Joe Oats

Henry, age 91, left his earthly body Wednesday, February 10^th, to reunite with the love of his life, Betty.  Henry will be greatly missed by the legions of people that crossed his path.  Henry was a force of nature that brightened the corner where he was.

Henry was born to Henry Clinton and Florene George Oats on December 2^nd, 1929 in Sulphur Bluff, Texas.  He spent a large portion of his youth in the River Oaks area and attended Tech High School.  He attended and played football at Ranger College.  Henry was a veteran and served overseas in the Army during the Korean War.  He married Betty Souder on July 9^th, 1954.  His career path took various directions having been a machinist at Convair/General Dynamics and Halliburton Corp.  Henry later attended classes in Commerce, Texas and received his Vocational Education Certificate.  Henry took a position at Birdville ISD as a junior high/middle school CVAE instructor at Watauga, where he retired

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More important than teaching a young man how to safely use tools, Henry would often take the time to sit his class down and share his life experiences and lessons he learned.  Henry had an affinity for relating to boys that otherwise might fall by the wayside.  Former students would often come by his house to visit “Oatie” and express their appreciation for his care and guidance.  Henry will be deeply missed by his family, long-time faithful neighbors, education colleagues, and certainly by his Whataburger Breakfast Gang.  Henry’s favorite pass times included boating, fishing, and bowling.

Henry was preceded in death by wife, Betty Lou Souder Oats, father and mother Clint and Florene Oats, brother Donnie Oats, niece Kelly Thomas, and niece Regina Scott.  Survivors include sister Robbie Sprinkles, niece Debra and husband Gary Hankins, and nephew Phillip and Kelly Oats.  There are several great nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be come and go in Biggers Funeral Home Chapel on Monday, February 22^nd, 3 to 7 p.m.  Graveside services will be held at Bluebonnet Hills Cemetery on Tuesday, February 23^rd at 3 p.m.  The family requests attendees observe CDC guidelines, wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.