Jim E. “Snake” Hendrick, 75, of Beaumont, died Wednesday, September 5, 2007 at Christus Hospital St. Mary in Port Arthur. He was born on March 23, 1932 in Waco, Texas.
After his Naval service ended in 1951, Jim attended Lamar University where he played basketball and received his B.S. in 1956. Later he attended West Texas State University for his Masters Degree in Education. After graduation, Jim joined the National Basketball Congress of America and played basketball all over the United States, and was also selected as an “All American” player. Jim was an avid traveler and also received his commercial pilot’s license in 1956.
Jim’s teaching and coaching career stretched from Weslaco to Dumas then finally back to East Texas at Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur. He retired in 1991, and began his traveling and golfing career. Jim played in numerous senior tournaments throughout the United States satisfying his love of golf and travel. He prided himself in that he visited every State including Alaska, Hawaii and traveled extensively through Europe. He regularly attended Lamar Basketball games and was frequently introduced as Cardinal Alum.
Jim possessed an adventurous spirit and enjoyed friendships and camaraderie with a wide variety of people. His love of competition was known to all. He will be loved and remembered for his zest for life and mourned as a father, grandfather, and friend.
His father, J.P. Claude Hendrick; preceded him in death.
Survivors include his, sons, Vallin Richards and Harlon Hendrick; daughters, Claire Dugoni, Nina Steinberg and Lauren “Bit” Bumstead; mother, Thelma Collie; and brother, Robert Moore. Jim was particularly involved with his fourteen grandchildren whom he visited often. He traveled from New York to South Dakota to be with them. Jim is also survived by his longtime companion and sweetheart, Louise DuBois of Houston.
Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 10, 2007 at Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont. Cremation arrangements were handled by Broussard’s Crematorium.
Memorial contributions may be made to Make A Wish Foundation, 1604 Bissonet, Houston, Texas 77005.
