William Henricks Obituary

Henricks, William Paul "Bill"

passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, in Saint Petersburg, FL at the age of 94. Born on April 14, 1931, in Butler, Pennsylvania, Bill lived a life defined by curiosity, kindness, creativity, and love.

Bill is survived by his devoted husband of 48 years, Barrie Cunningham; along with numerous beloved nephews and nieces. His 94 years were richly filled with learning, living, and loving. With bright blue eyes and an always-gentle nature, Bill's spirit illuminated every space he entered. He was deeply curious about others - their thoughts, feelings, and lived histories - and he had an extraordinary gift for making people feel welcome. Strangers quickly became friends in his presence.

Bill moved from Butler, PA, to Los Angeles during his middle school years. After graduating high school, he relocated to San Francisco, where he worked for Levi Strauss & Co., while attending night school. His dedication and perseverance led him to graduate from the University of San Francisco's Jesuit School, earning a degree in Elementary Education. Shortly thereafter, he began his teaching career in Pacifica - one that would shape the rest of his professional life - and it was during this time that he met the love of his life and future husband, Barrie.

Together, Bill and Barrie moved to Reno, Nevada, where they continued working in the field of education. After retirement, they settled in Saint Petersburg, FL, where they happily spent the last 35 years of their lives.

While living in San Francisco, Bill explored an interest in real estate and was featured in Sunset Magazine in September 1972 for his remarkable city garden, which thrived despite poor soil and a steep slope - a testament to his ingenuity and determination.

In retirement, Bill discovered a new passion: live acting. From the early 1990s through 2000, he performed at the well-known Early Bird Dinner Theatre in Saint Petersburg. He delighted in rehearsing his lines alongside Barrie, who indulged him by reading opposite him. A lifelong and voracious reader, Bill enjoyed a wide range of subjects and could recite poetry entirely from memory. He truly was a renaissance man.

Bill and Barrie were devoted travelers of the seas and shared a love of exploration, antiques, and community. They owned and operated antique sales venues in both Reno and Saint Petersburg. Along the way, Bill collected not only treasured antiques, but also lifelong friendships-formed through travel, shared passions, and their spiritual home away from home, the Metropolitan Community Church.

Bill loved the arts, cooking, reading, and acting, but most of all, he loved life. His laughter, grace, and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

From your wildly eclectic family and wide circle of friends: Bill, we wish you a heartfelt bon voyage on this next great adventure. We offer you a resounding standing ovation - for a life truly and beautifully well lived.

National Cremation Society

View Guest Book www.tampabay.com/obits