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Marques Haynes
1925 - 2015
Marques Haynes
1925 - 2015
Obituary
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BORN
1925
DIED
2015
Marques Haynes Obituary
He died Friday in Plano, Texas, of natural causes, the Globetrotters said. CEO Kurt Schneider said "basketball has lost one of its most iconic figures."
Haynes made the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998, the first Globetrotter to be so honored. He had two stints with the touring team — from 1947-53 and 1972-79.
He played in more than 12,000 games, traveling more than 4 million miles and appearing in more than 100 countries for a team that combined dazzling skills, theatrical flair and circus antics. He was the Globetrotters' player-coach in 1974-75.
The Globetrotters will dedicate their 90th anniversary tour in 2016 to Haynes and will wear a uniform patch in tribute.
"Marques was a pioneer, helping pave the way for people of all races to have opportunities to play basketball, and for the sport to explode on a global scale," Schneider said. "His unique and groundbreaking style of play set the tone for modern basketball as we know it. Anyone involved with basketball worldwide is indebted to Marques. He was the consummate Globetrotter.
While playing at Langston (Oklahoma) University, the acrobatic Haynes caught the attention of Globetrotters owner Abe Saperstein in 1946 after leading Langston to a win over Globies. Haynes remained at the school, but after graduation joined the Globetrotters. He led them to victories against the George Mikan-led Minneapolis Lakers of the NBA in 1948 and 1949.
Haynes was more than mere showman on the court, although his dribbling skills were show-stopping displays that often had opponents standing and watching in awe. He led Booker T. Washington High School in his hometown of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, to the unofficial national championship in 1941 and was a scholastic All-American that season. He then starred at Langston, an NAIA school where he was a four-time all-conference selection and team MVP.
Haynes led Langston in scoring all four years and the team had a 112-3 record, including a 59-game winning streak.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
101 Entries
Renieka Patterson
June 16, 2024
My dad (John Smith) looked up to Marques with such admiration and honor. I wish both of them were here to be a part of the Father's Day Festivities. Marques was a great person and I have fond memories of him. Dad told so many exciting and funny stories of their travels and time on the road... Happy Father's Day Marques!!!
Gone but never forgotten ❤ RIH
Donald White
July 17, 2021
My sincere condolences and belated sympathy to the family ,what a gift to the black community and world as well this man was extraordinarily talented my uncle went to Langston when Marques was there on the Basketball team so I actually got first hand accounts of him as my uncle was on the football team at the time with legendary coach Zipp Gales if I spelled that right I even have a picture of Marques in my uncles scrapbook but anyway God Bless him you, and the family Don White from Sapulpa Oklahoma
faith/rory tobin/dcokett
May 23, 2020
Dear Haynes Family Rory and myself would luv to express our condolences's on the loss of Marques Haynes.I used to see the Harlem Globetrotters.luv,faith/rory
How you can show support
Harry Simpson
May 23, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Lena Williams
July 26, 2015
Rest in peace.
Brenda
June 5, 2015
My condolences to the Haynes family! Words cannot express the depth of the world's admiration and respect for Marques Haynes. He made a positive imprint on the lives of many. Hoping his family members, fans, and friends can find comfort in knowing that he is precious in God's eyes and that God will recall Mr. Haynes' deeds from His indelible memory allowing loved ones to greet this retired Globetrotter as he enters the promised Paradise.
June 5, 2015
A special life has passed from sight... Embrace the memories that will comfort you. May the God of comfort be with you during this difficult time in your lives? It is refreshing to know that God's word speaks of a time when all sorrows will be gone and that mankind will live in beautiful surroundings having nothing to fear no pain or sorrow Isaiah 65:17, 21-24.
Iola
June 1, 2015
I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family of Marques. I remember watching him play. He was a great player. He will be missed. May the God of all comfort,comfort you during this time with his promise to ressurect our loved ones some day. Know that I am thinking of your family an am keeping you in my prayers.
Iola
May 29, 2015
I give my codolonces to the family and friends of Mr. Haynes
May 28, 2015
I truly enjoyed your dedication ceremony at Langston when the university named the basketball court the Marcus Haynes Court in your honor. I was a member of Zip's last basketball team that he coached and am sure that he, as well as all us that played for him will pass your stories on forever.
Joe N. Hornbeak,Jr.
Tammala Carter
May 28, 2015
My Beloved Uncle Marques, I will cherish all of the beautiful memories and opportunities that you created not just for me but for so many. You are loved dearly. May you rest in peace knowing that you blessed so many. Love your Great Neice Tammala Carter
May 27, 2015
No one can prepare you for a loss;it come like a swift wind. But take comfort in knowing that Uncle Marques is now resting in the arms of our Lord. My deepest condolences to you Aunt Joan and the entire family.
Charles Fields
May 27, 2015
it seems like yesterday when you took me to the movies as a youngster and the many cards you sent mom from all over the world. I shall never ever forget you.
Charles "Rip" FIELDS
Cheryl Pressey -Powell
May 27, 2015
Marsha,your father was a great man and a real trail blazer. His gifted skills were extremely fascinating and jaw-dropping. Thank you for sharing him with the world and making our lives windows to laughter via basketball. Be encouraged. Your Spelman sister, Cheryl Pressey-Powell
Mary/Claude Young
May 27, 2015
Joan,we are so sorry to hear about Marques' passing. Please accept our condolences for the entire family - we are enriched by knowing him.
chrisbertsch
May 26, 2015
thank you for making my childhood Fun
May 26, 2015
My sincere condolences. May it comfort you to know that God, as well as others care about your feelings at this time of your loss.
Wright
May 26, 2015
The world of basketball has lost a skilled dribbler and pioneer of the game. He paved the way for many young men to be skillful and enjoy the game of basketball. May your fond memories bring you joy. The God of comfort, comfort and heal your sorrow.Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, and fans.
May 26, 2015
Comforting thoughts and memories to your hearts.
"And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.
Elizabeth
May 26, 2015
I loved seeing you every year at the Jim Thorps/NFL Players Golf tournament. You always remembered me and gave me a big hug. You will be sorely missed.
Laurie O'Keefe-Williams (formerly Laurie Reardon)
G. Freeman
May 26, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
William Ligon
May 26, 2015
A true ambassador for the game of basketball and goodwill toward man...
Tyler Foss
May 25, 2015
Mr. Haynes,
Thank you for being the great ambassador for basketball - the greatest game man has ever invented. You spread love everywhere you went especially with the Harlem Globetrotters. May you rest in eternal peace.
May the sorrow at the loss of Mr. Haynes to his friends and family be healed at the speed of a Marques Haynes dribble.
John Henry-Brown
May 25, 2015
So sorry for the loss of your loved one. I hope you find some comfort in our loving God who cares about each one of us individually. As a professional photographer it was an honor to cover Mr. Haynes induction to the Basket Ball Hall of Fame in 1998 Thanks to the family for that opportunity May the all mighty God bless and comfort you
A Ross
May 25, 2015
May the God of peace guide the Family Through this time of mourning. He is in God's memory and will respond to His Son's Jesus voice to be united with all mourning his death. John 5:25
michelle plakas-kaiser
May 25, 2015
rip
May 25, 2015
So sorry for the loss of your loved one. I hope you find some comfort in our loving God who cares about each one of us individually.
tracey kinard
May 25, 2015
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
May 25, 2015
So sorry to hear of the passing of such an inspiring person. May the family and many admiring fans be comforted by the Creator that assist us through difficult times as the loss of one so dear.
May 25, 2015
With deepest sympathy to the Haynes family.
May the God of Comfort (Psalm 83:18) grant you the needed strength and the sweetest peace during your time of grief. And may you always cherish the many fond memories of times spent with Marques.
Juanita, Florida
Stephen Robertson
May 25, 2015
My memory of Marques is unique. Him, Wilt Chamberlain, and Meadowlark Lemon pull up to the house in Meadowlarks gold Rolls Royce to pick my father up when he was a member of The Bucketeers. Myself and other kids were in the yard playing basketball and he got out of the car in a real nice suit and dribbled for us. If my heart had eyes it would be crying right now. Much love Marques. You will be missed
Michael Jennings
May 25, 2015
He gave me a chance to forefill a dream. Was truly and honor to play for and with Mr Haynes.may GOD rest his soul.
May 24, 2015
May the God of all comfort strengthen the entire family during this time of sorrow. Those who die God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. (Psalms 116:15) My sincerest sympathy.
Edward Stuaty
May 24, 2015
It WAS AN HONOR TO MEET YOU AT THE HALL OF FAME. SOMEDAY WE WILL MEET IN HEAVEN.GOD BLESS YOU AND ALL WHO GRIEVE LOSING YOU.
Jane Woodhouse
May 24, 2015
I remember watching you in the '60s...you were my favorite. My condolences to your family.
RLA
May 24, 2015
I am truly sorry for the loss of Marques Haynes.Please accept my condolences. He was a true pro basketball pioneer who provided countless hours of entertainment to fans accross the globe.His legacy will not soon be forgotten. May God's promises at Isaiah 65:20 give you needed comfort and hope.
May 24, 2015
So sorry to read about the loss of your
loved one. May God bless you and your
family at this time of your grief.
Nancy Green
May 24, 2015
My condolences to the Haynes family on the loss of Marques.
As a child in Henderson, NV, I attended school with Martina, who alway spoke so highly of Marques. We were are in awe of Martina, having a Harlem Globetrotter for a brother. May he rest in peace and God Bless his family.
Nancy (DePeal) Green, Deming, WA
James Woodson
May 24, 2015
We express our condolences to the Haynesfamily, extended family and many friends. Since my childhood, when Mr Hayes and friends were in town, they have been a way for us to have good family fun, laughs, surprises and amazement. May you even more so find comfort in your many fond memories together, God's promise to undo all tragedy and the words of the greatest man who ever lived: "When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice: Lazarus, (Marques), come out!+ 44 The man who had been dead came out with his feet and hands bound with wrappings, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them: Free him and let him go.
Jane Dowling
May 24, 2015
Rest in peace ~
David Hammond
May 24, 2015
I remember when I was around ten or eleven years old back in Boise Idaho the Globetrotter's went to Boise. It was a great thing to watch I know how it made all of the kids happy I know how much I had enjoyed watching them play, I remember watching Mr. Haynes and how he would do these things that looked impossible.
I myself miss watching him and the other Globetrotters for they will forever be in my memories.
It was a great honor for myself and my friend to have to gotten to see all of them play in my hometown.
mary
May 24, 2015
wow.what a unique individual,with god given talents.god bless the Haynes family.marques was born the same year as my father.people in their time...brilliant.peace
Matthew O'Neil
May 24, 2015
I watched him play basketball at the Memorial hall building in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1990. The players from the 1940's and 1950's were the true pioneers of a sport that has become an All American sport credential for varsity high school players.
CARL CLARK
May 24, 2015
My thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr. Marques Haynes. He was a basketball legend which inspired many to play and love the game of basketball. Being a member of the famed Globetrotters, they put on the greatest show with dignity, class and finesse. I hope the Scripture at 1 Thessalonians 4:14; will comfort the family. "For if we have faith that Jesus died and rose again, so too God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep in death through Jesus." In the near future Marques may live again!
Bill Greathouse
May 24, 2015
Marques was my idle as a boy in Akron, Ohio after my dad took me to watch the Globetrotters. To this day I have mental images of his fantastic abilities, I am now 70. He made a difference in this world!
May 24, 2015
I would like to offer my deepest condolences for your loss. May your family find peace and comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be gone for this has been promised.
Mendon J. Lezine
May 24, 2015
For you Mr. Haynes. God is with you always and forever!!!
Mendon J. Lezine
May 24, 2015
Condolence to the Haynes family...Thanks for the memories Mr. Globetrotter .... Mr. Dribbler To you Mr. Marques Haynes...You will be missed, But Never Forgotten!!!!
Jon Holnapy
May 23, 2015
Thank you for being a part of my wonderful childhood. You made my basketball days exciting.
May 23, 2015
Cherish the memories! God will open his hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:16
May 23, 2015
Deepest sympathies from the Bob Brumley family in McAlester, Oklahoma. My father -- who is 90 -- asked me to relay to the family how much he treasured his friendship with Marques. Their relationship stemmed from a shared love of basketball and a respect for each other's ability and knowledge. My oldest brother even had the chance to travel to Puerto Rico with one of the Harlem Travelers teams thanks to Mr. Haynes. He certainly left a mark on the world, and with our family.
Rodney
May 23, 2015
My condolences to the Haynes family on loss of the magnificent Marques Haynes. May the wonderful memories of him provide you comfort until God's promises are fulfilled at John6:40.
b c
May 23, 2015
To the family and friends of Mr. Haynes I offer my sincere condolences. May he rest in peace until John 5:28 is fulfilled.
E R
May 23, 2015
Sorry for your loss of love one. Matthew 11:28,29,30, John 11:24,25,26,
May 23, 2015
RIP
Carol Thompson
May 23, 2015
My sincere condolences to the Haynes family during this time of grief. May the "God of all comfort" bring you and your family peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Mark Merola
May 23, 2015
I was an usher at The New Haven Arena in New Haven , Conn. during that era. I always enjoyed when they came to town. He was the best. I still have his autograph. Rest in peace.
Eugene Jones III
May 23, 2015
Not only was he among the greatest whoever played the game of basketball, he was also a great human being; very humbler, gentle and unassuming. I will miss him.
BILL JACKSON
May 23, 2015
HE WAS SIMPLY THE BEST AND TO PUT IT A BIT SIMPLER, A GREAT HUMAN BEING.....SO LONG MARQUES, HOPE ONE DAY TO SEE YOU PLAY AGAIN.
BILL JACKSON
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
May 23, 2015
I'm very sorry to hear of the passing of a basketball legend. I enjoy watching basketball today because of the exposure I received from the Globetrotters at a very young age. May God bring peace and comfort to the family.-Philippians 4:6,7
May 23, 2015
One of the greats, if not the greatest. A real loss to the world of sports. R.I.P.
May 23, 2015
Great man! Sad to see him go.....
Pat Quillen
May 23, 2015
I spoke of you daily in the halls of my high school during the mid-fifties. You were and are greatly admired. May God be with you forever.
Joan Selchau
May 23, 2015
I will never forget the times I was honored to see the Globetrotter's play basketball. Marques Haynes and Goose Tatum were the outstanding players. Now Marques can awe the angels with his amazing talents.
Joan Selchau
Bob and Lynne Saulsbury
May 23, 2015
My prayers go out to the family--- Thanks for the "memories"
Connie Hawkins
May 23, 2015
In addition to his incredible skills on the court, he was a very classy gentleman off the court. My condolences to his family and friends.
May 23, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Vicki Foster
May 23, 2015
Thank you Mr. Haynes and all the other Globetrotters who entertained the world with dignity and finesse. You will never be forgotten. Sincere condolences to family and friends.
May 23, 2015
My condolences to friends and family. Please draw comfort in knowing God is greater than your hearts
Arnold Powers
May 23, 2015
The best dribbler there ever was...
K.W.T.
May 23, 2015
GOD BLESS ONE OF THE BEST , REST IN PEACE MR HAYNES. YOUR IN GOOD HANDS.
May 23, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family and Globetrotter friends. For years as a kid I was truly entertained by their skills. May the family endeavor to remember the good times, as we all await the time when "death will be swallowed up forever" 1 Cor 15:54; [email protected]
May 23, 2015
thank you marques, you inspired thousands of young boys to develop a purpose to play basketball that infulenced their after lives.....God bless you. sincerely, just a great admirer. JMF/Sheboygan wisc.
May 23, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Johnson Family
May 23, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family for the loss of your loved one. May prayers strengthen you and memories comfort you, and may our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loves us, comfort your hearts and "make you firm". (2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17)
May 23, 2015
I spent my youth trying to imitate Marques, thanks for the memories !
Ted Borduas
Vienna, VA
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
May 23, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
Sidney Glencoe
May 23, 2015
Marques was indeed one of the first great
performers in his sport to mesmerize audiences across the globe.
Thank You
CJ
May 23, 2015
My deepest condolences to the Hayes Family May the true God heal your pain and comfort your hearts (Psalm 119:25,76)
Johnsons
May 23, 2015
My condolences to the Haynes family. I remember being amazed by the globetrotter as a kid. Their skills are even more impressive as an adult. Mr. Haynes was amazing and made a serious impressive on people of various backgrounds during divisive times. May the God of all comfort strengthen and support the family during this difficult time.
Tommy
May 23, 2015
My condolences to the family of Marques Haynes. He was legendary man on and off the court. May God continue to comfort your family through this difficult time.
Charlotte J Anderson Cotton
May 23, 2015
God Bless the Haynes family.....
Adrian Barnette
May 23, 2015
We'll miss you !
Thomas Bush
May 23, 2015
the harlem globetrotters was always a treat to watch i remember marques yes he was great to watch and made all of us laugh just like meadowlark lemon may marques R I P
May 22, 2015
I saw him play many times in my youth, Whenever the Globetrotters were coming to SF it was a must to persuade our parents to take us. Goose Tatum & Marques Haynes were simply incredible players. Don Solem, San Francisco, CA
JUDY KETTNER
May 22, 2015
MY PRAYERS AND CONDOLENCES GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY AND TO THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS BASKET BALL TEAM. GREAT PERSON REST IN PEACE
YOURS JUDY KETTNER ANCHORAGE AK
May 22, 2015
My condolences to your family during this time of grief. your love one will be missed.
RLA Washington DC
May 22, 2015
Please accept my condolences regarding the loss of the great Marques Haynes. Take comfort in knowing that God hasn't abandoned you during this difficult time. I find Psalm 121 to be very comforting when faced with trying times.
May 22, 2015
May the love of God be with the family,my sincere thoughts and condolence are with you.may Matt.5:4 be of consolation......
North carolina
Gregory Clarke
May 22, 2015
Mr. Haynes came to Syracuse NY when I was a young boy. He made every boy want to do all the razzle dazzle he could and we tried. He has a wonderful life rtouching so many lives in a positive way.
May 22, 2015
May the Almighty God of comfort be with family and friends at this time of deep sorrow. God loves and care for you.
A Fan
May 22, 2015
The Globetrotter fan and Haynes family, A true legend and gentle man. He will be sadly missed but will always remain in our hearts.
Scott Chamberland
May 22, 2015
Rest in Peace
Min. Carl Gary
May 22, 2015
This man was a gift to this world. He brought joy into the eyes and minds of many the world over. He loved what he did and it showed. May God give him eternal rest in paradise and keep his family girded up in strength and peace. God bless you Haynes family.
t
May 22, 2015
Haynes family and friends, I am so sorry for your loss. Yes the show stopping team gave you no choice but to stop and be amazed at their abilities to handle the basketball. Hope is ever held out for our love ones. (Act24:12)
May 22, 2015
I remember seeing the Globetrotters play on TV when I was a kid. My condolences to his family and fans and I hope to meet him in Paradise.
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