Henry Sides

1938 - 2016

Henry Nicholson Sides

Henry Nicholson Sides, 78, passed away at his home on September 12. He died in the arms of his beloved son Josh and his wife of 52 years, Sudie. Henry was born in Concord, North Carolina 1938. He received a Ph.D in Philosophy from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. It is there that he and Sudie met and married in 1964. Henry left his teaching career in philosophy to become a full time artist in 1970, soon after the death of his infant daughter. From 1972 on, he painted at a home studio in order to be fully involved as the father of Josh, born in San Francisco in 1972. In the 90's he moved to a studio at Hunter's Point Shipyard, participating in their Open Studio every fall and spring. He painted at home until 3 days before his death. He loved San Francisco and was a great walker in the city. He enjoyed philosophical discussions and at any party he could be found in the kitchen engaged in an intense conversation. Everyone who knew him loved his soft Southern accent and his sometimes-wicked wit. Henry's paintings are in collections throughout the United States and Canada. In addition to his wife and son, Henry is survived by his beautiful and beloved daughter-in-law Rebecca and two wonderful grandchildren, Sarah and Jesse, ages eleven and ten. He delighted in these children. He is also survived by his brother Dave; two sisters in law, Peggy Jeens and Marion Sides; two nieces, Libby Severance and Kris Olson, two nephews, David and Darien Sides, and seven great nephews and nieces. Donations in Henry's memory can be sent to the Saint Anthony's Foundation of San Francisco.