Henry Thomas Gaffney

Henry Thomas Gaffney, 79, peacefully passed away on Monday, December 4, 2023, while surrounded by loved ones.

 

Born on January 9, 1944, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Henry embraced life with an insatiable passion for adventure and knowledge. An exceedingly creative individual, Henry reveled in the beauty of dancing, art, music, and cooking. He also possessed a unique ability to captivate audiences and would generously share his life experiences with anyone who had an ear to listen.

 

Henry devoted his career to the United States Air Force and the Department of Energy and devoted his life to building a legacy of love. His spirit lives on through his unwavering love of life, wit, and the everlasting mark he left on those fortunate enough to know him.

Henry's zest for life extended to the thrill of a good bargain. Renowned for his ability to spot treasures hidden in the most unexpected places, he turned these outings into adventures of their own, leaving a legacy not just of wisdom but also of the joy found in life's simple pleasures.

 

Affectionately known as “Pop” by those he held dear, Henry is survived by his older brother, James "Jay" Gaffney, sons Christopher Erin Gaffney Sr. and Sean Patrick Gaffney; grandchildren Christopher Erin Gaffney Jr., Emily Marie Gaffney, Ethan Thomas Gaffney, Liam Patrick Gaffney, and Kate Elizabeth Gaffney; great-grandchildren Christy Lynn Gaffney, Mia Lea Gaffney, Otto Alexander Gaffney, and Hayden Thomas Gaffney; beloved friend Alberto Luis Planas; and last but not least, his beloved dog, Fred Gaffney.

 

Henry is preceded in death by his parents, James Joseph Gaffney and Irene Bauer Gaffney, as well as his beloved aunt Dorothy Bauer and younger brother, William "Bill" Gaffney.

Amidst the mourning, the Gaffney family draws strength from a motto Henry coined during his children's upbringing: "Gaffney's are Weebles. Weebles wobble but they don't fall down." This resilient philosophy, passed down through generations, serves as a reminder of perseverance and faith during challenging times.

 

His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who experienced the wonder that was Henry Thomas Gaffney. As his family navigates this difficult time, they find comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to inspire adventure, a love of knowledge, creativity, storytelling, a good bargain, perseverance, and enduring love.

 

 A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 501 Holy Trinity Dr, Covington, LA 70471 to honor and celebrate the beautiful life of Henry Thomas Gaffney.

 

"As the ear of the elk seeks the heart of the cabbage, so to does the tortoise as it is beckoned from its shell." – Henry Thomas Gaffney