Rickey Henderson

1958 - 2024

Rickey Henderson obituary, 1958-2024

Rickey Henderson

1958 - 2024

BORN

1958

DIED

2024

Rickey Henderson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Dec. 23 to Dec. 24, 2024.

Rickey Henderson was a Major League Baseball Hall of Famer who still holds the records for most runs and most stolen bases more than 20 years after his retirement.

We invite you to share condolences for Rickey Henderson in our Guest Book.
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Read the full obituary in Legacy's headline news section.

(Photo: Jane Tyska/Digital First Media/East Bay Times via Getty Images)

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April 3, 2025

Carson Loveless posted to the memorial.

February 1, 2025

Sean McGrew posted to the memorial.

February 1, 2025

Jimmy Dean Neal posted to the memorial.

60 Entries

Carson Loveless

April 3, 2025

Condolences to his family

Sean McGrew

February 1, 2025

I was fortunate enough to be able to watch him play in Oakland many times and meet him I will miss you man of steal my condolences to your family

Jimmy Dean Neal

February 1, 2025

Rickey Henderson was my friend. His commitment to our community and education is something I will always treasure. His kindness and generosity would shine through in everything he did, especially in his involvement with my Turkey drives at Defermery Park in West Oakland. Rickey worked alongside me and Vida Blue, Dusty Baker, Dave Stewart, Shooty Babitt, Mike Norris, Nate Oliver, and Tye Waller. Working as a team on the Grail the Game project, Rickey's dedication to fostering knowledge and growth among the youth was truly inspiring. It was a honor for me to be in the room with them for twelve hours as we worked together on developing our education program to illustrate how baseball works as a science. He was more than just a baseball legend; he was a dear friend and an extraordinary role model. His legacy will forever leave a mark on my heart and on all who had the privilege of knowing him. I send my deepest sympathy to his beautiful family.

Crystal Williams

February 1, 2025

We all at Claremont jr high school wayyy back in the days & also at bushrod park .O great memories

Brian Sadler

January 31, 2025

Difficult! As pro athletes and celebrities go... off the field Rickey Henderson was humble and as down to earth as can be! Years ago my awesome friend Corina introduced me to Rickey and it was an instant friendship. When I got the word of his sudden passing... I was standing in the snow... it was 13° and windy. I was at a major sporting event with friends all around. Everything got instantly quiet and as I struggled to process the devastating news... I just began to pray. I stepped away from everyone and as I looked up to the sky... the clouds broke just enough for the Sun to break through... just briefly!

Farewell Rickey! You left us far too soon! ³

Pamela Robinson

January 30, 2025

I will be away on Saturday February 1st, which will make it impossible for me to make his Celebration of Life ceremony. I will be representing by wearing my Rickey Henderson Jersey all day. Rickey will always remain in my heart. Continued prayers for the family.

Jenny Langford

January 29, 2025

Rickey was shopping in the same store as me few years ago. He was kind enough to let me have a photo taken with him and have brief chat. I'll never forget this, he was always one of my favorite players. My heartfelt condolences to his family.

Ms. Wanda Lenard-Wilkerson & Family

January 28, 2025

My heartfelt condolences and prayers of comfort to Ricky Henderson Family and Friends, his presence shall truly be missed. May we all find comfort in the loving memories we share. I was deeply saddened to hear of Ricky's passing. Please know that my prayer and thoughts are with you all. A favorite memory of mine is the days we spent at Bushrod Park growing up and the wonderful lessons learn there, where Leslie Colbert and Mike Hammock were the "Village" of our times. Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead. Blessings and much love
The Lenard Sisters, Kathy, Wanda and Deborah

Ms. Wanda Lenard-Wilkerson & Family

January 28, 2025

Pamela Robinson

January 22, 2025

Losing Rickey continues to hit hard. Definitely feels like a family member. Continued prayers for his family.

Darryl & Omari MUHAMMAD

January 20, 2025

OAKLAND LEGEND Rickey Henderson #24 The G.O.A.T..in Almighty God's Care

Darryl & Omari MUHAMMAD

January 20, 2025

OAKLAND LEGEND Rickey Henderson #24 The G.O.A.T. in Almighty God's Care

Darryl & Omari MUHAMMAD

January 20, 2025

Robert Krikourian

January 15, 2025

We´d always sit in the left field bleachers, behind Rickey. My wife and I were fortunate enough to get tickets to all four (five) games of the `89 World Series; we sat behind Rickey in left field, and always yelled "We love you, Rickey!"; sometimes, he´d turn around+wave an acknowledgement. Rest In Peace, Rickey.

Shan

January 15, 2025

My favorite player of all time.greatest base stealer ever. I had the BIGGEST crush on Rickey back when he played for the Oakland A´s. Rest in eternal paradise, my Love
Shannon Wise

Florence Brooks

January 12, 2025

I am praying for his Family I know his mother we worked at same place long time ago and He and my oldest Son attended Oakland Tech Earth have no sorrow that Heaven cannot Heal RIP

Arthur Roberson

January 9, 2025

RIP Rickey we meet in the bank there in Oakland. You give me your autograph. Thanks bruh you was the BEST.
Art

Mark Garcia

January 7, 2025

I remember the A´s getting Ricky back from the Yankees. Any hit or walk he got, we knew it was a double.

Earl Ramer

January 7, 2025

Rickey Henderson will always be my number one baseball player Forever! I love Rickey so much! I left yellow roses and a note in green and gold for Rickey at his memorial on 66th Ave. My two Heroes are gone. Rickey Henderson and Neil Peart. Both. The Greatest.

I was lucky to be the only one to meet Rickey in 2009 after the Rickey Celebration Day in Oakland.
I was standing at the Irish Pub on field level in line to grab a beer.
I see Rickey walk in with his daughter. I run up to Rickey. I said..."Rickey! I love you!"
He shook my hand and said.... "Thank you."
Within seconds security swarmed in.
I was so lucky on that magical day.

I also cut DVC junior College on one sacred day in the East Bay!
I saw Rickey steal 939!
I still have my certificate!

I love you Rickey Henderson! Always!!

Earl

Toya

January 6, 2025

Oakland will forever love you Rickey Henderson! May you rest in eternal peace 2-4!!

Nadine Jenkins

January 6, 2025

Thank you Rickey for all the great memories! My favorite player who signed my baseball . You brought so much joy and excitement for all of us! Rest easy!

Kevin Batangan

January 5, 2025

I´m in the middle of the "Rickey" book and the author mentioned the "Rickey´s Run" and other various cool things about him. Made me reminisce!

Tony Spirito

January 5, 2025

Bernard Singh

January 4, 2025

I was saddened to hear of the passing of "The Great" Rickey Henderson. I feel privileged to have met you in 2012 (see attached pic). You were an integral part of helping the Toronto Blue Jays win their second World Series title in 1993.

Rest in eternal peace, Legend!

Kerry Savage

January 3, 2025

Are you going to have a memorial for Ricky Henderson in oakland, Calif. Lots of people would like to pay their respect. Kerry Savage

Kerry Savage

January 3, 2025

I went to Oakland Technical High School with him. I also graduated with him in 1976, I still have the year book. He will be missed. R. I.P. Ricky. Henderson. Kerry Savage

RA

January 3, 2025

One of the greats, prayers and condolences to the Henderson family.

D. Webb

January 2, 2025

Our heartfelt condolences to the Henderson Family. May God comfort each heart individually and collectively during this time. Love, Ronald Webb ( in spirit) and The Webb Family.

Todd Stroud

January 1, 2025

Rickey was my boyhood baseball hero. He was part of my childhood. I respected him for not just what he did on the field, but what he did off the field as well. While at my last game I would attend at Oakland Coliseum this year, I noticed Rickey standing next to where I was sitting, behind home plate. Rickey was watching the opposing pitcher. I had always wanted to meet him and here was my chance. I approached Rickey and I felt myself as a 12 year old kid again. I thanked him for all the memories over the years. Rickey was very personable and we chatted for several minutes. It was a memory I will always remember. We was very obliging when I asked if I could take a photo with him. I thank Rickey´s family for sharing him with us. He will be forever missed.

Takahashi Family

January 1, 2025

Condolences to the Henderson Family. He was the Greatest and a true Oakland legend who brought so much joy to all of us baseball fans.

Al Willis

December 31, 2024

Deepest Condolences to the family.

Diana Thompson

December 30, 2024

My deepest sympathy for all of you....Ricky let me take a picture of
him in 2018 at a Dbacks vs Dodgers game....It was an honor.My dad
and I enjoyed watching Ricky on TV or at spring training games.
He was one of the best....RIP

Burchell Keys-Toyfoya

December 29, 2024

My prayers goes out to his wife and family and continue blessings in heaven unconditional love to Ricky Henderson

Dan Dominguez

December 28, 2024

I would like to send my condolences to the entire Henderson family. A loss of life is always hard.

Though we all mourn the loss of the life of Mr. Henderson, the legend lives on, and will always live on. With the likes of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Hank Aaron, and many other mlb greats, there is Ricky Henderson. A man who will live amongst the greatest.

Gerald Matlock

December 28, 2024

My first memory of Ricky was when I was in 4th or 5th grade and I got my first baseball card of him in my baseball card club that I had in elementary school

Gerald matlock

December 28, 2024

ER

December 27, 2024

My deepest sympathy to the Henderson´s family and friends at this difficult time. May Almighty God comfort and strength you all. 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. May the fond memories of your loved one always be remember.

Herman Cowan

December 27, 2024

Rest in Power Rickey. Oakland Tech classmate 1976. Condolences and prayers for the family. Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.

Pamela Robinson

December 27, 2024

Rickey Henderson is my favorite baseball player of all time. Enjoyed watching him lead off and steal bases as an Oakland A. When he became a Yankee, I was in seventh heaven. Never got the chance to meet him personally because it wasn't in the stars. First on a Yankee cruise and most recently at Cooperstown earlier this year. There were other opportunities but never happened. I will cherish all my memorabilia and enjoy all the great memories others will share. Rickey, Thank you for your contribution to the sport.
Prayers to his family.

Debbie Moore-Reed

December 27, 2024

Condolences to the family. It is going to be difficult, but in time I pray your memories and love will get you through this difficult time. Always remember the happy times.

Dave Struckman

December 26, 2024

As a young man growing up watching this man play all was a treat. He was one of the greatest fan favorites!

Kevin Duffy

December 26, 2024

RIP Rickey, you truly were the greatest. I so enjoyed watching you play the game. My sympathies to your family and friends.

Elizabeth Bell

December 25, 2024

RIP Rickey

Valenda Newell

December 25, 2024

I was not even a baseball sports fan until I started watching with my dad one evening. This young man kept stealing numerous bases in a single game. I said who is this amazing player, my dad said Ricky Henderson. I never missed a game he played in since that time. Incredible baseball talent...Prayers and Blessings to family and friends

John Schweiger

December 25, 2024

Dear Henderson family, I send my deepest condolences and I will keep you all in my prayers. As a was growing up, Rickey was not only my favorite baseball player but my favorite athlete. Coming from western Pennsylvania, with all the players from our Pittsburgh teams, Rickey Henderson was still number one for me. I am very saddened by his passing as many are around the world. On Mary 20, 2023 I got to meet him along with one of his beautiful daughters for the first time and a was ver grateful. I felt like a kid again meeting my childhood idol. It was one of the best experiences. He was the kindest sweetest men I´ve met. Miss seeing him play. The game will never be the same. Thank you for sharing him with myself and the world for so many years. My heart goes out to you all.

John Schweiger

December 25, 2024

RB

December 25, 2024

One of the best base stealers in baseball. He earned his place in the Hall of Fame, he made his mark. Prayers for the Henderson family. May God be with you all.

Siobhan Hill

December 24, 2024

Rickey was my childhood idol. Playing baseball I modelled myself on him...leading off,.stealing bases. When I was 10 I had a yankees helmet and painted the number 24 on it with liquid corrector. Hearing the news of his passing has crushed me....there truly will never be a player like Rickey again. He is the greatest of all time. Condolences to his loved ones, teammates and friends. Thanks for all the baseball memories Rickey....we are blessed to have experienced your greatness.

nthony Hernandez

December 24, 2024

He was very nice and approachable when you crossed paths with him at the stadium. A true all-star in baseball and life.

RR

December 24, 2024

Such an amazing player that had such an incredible career. His records for stealing bases still holds. One of the MLB greats. Sincere condolences to the Henderson family. May God be with you all to help you through this very difficult time.

faith c.tobin/brad j/herscot

December 24, 2024

Dear Henderson Family Brad and I extend our condolences's to the Henderson Family.he'll surely be missed very much and may he rest in peace.best faith/brad

Bobby White

December 24, 2024

Sorry to hear of the passing of Rickey. Rickey entertained many with his baseball skills. His accomplishments will be remembered by all those who lives he touched through his career. May you find comfort in the legacy Rickey left behind and may you also find comfort in God´s word the Bible.

Arnie Reichbaum

December 24, 2024

I met Rickey when I was Asst. GM for the Jersey City Indians in 1978. We kept in touch for years. He was always great to me and my family over the years. Our family will miss him but always cherish our memories.

Max Weissend

December 24, 2024

He was my favorite baseball player

Theisha Rush

December 24, 2024

Rickey Henderson made me fall in love with baseball as a little girl of seven years old. His speed, energy, and passion brought the game to life. His positivity and fearless play made me see that our dreams can come true with hard work, determination and faith in God. Rest in peace, Rickey, and thank you for the joy you gave us, you´re one of the reasons my son and I spent countless amazing hours at the coliseum, watching the game that we love.

Rhonda

December 23, 2024

Rickey, you will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for all the joy you brought to my life. Sending prayers and love to the Henderson family. RIP Rickey.

SF Bay Area

December 23, 2024

Saw Rickey play many times at the Oakland Coliseum, and I agree that he is the best leadoff hitter and base stealer in MLB history. Such a delightful and beloved character, as well. A true Bay Area and baseball treasure.

James Mahoney

December 23, 2024

I was fortunate to see Rickey play many times in Oakland from 1979 through the mid-90s. He gave us many thrills here in Oakland, as well as around the rest of the baseball world, and will be missed. May God reward him with eternal rest.

Daryle Bucel

December 23, 2024

The greatest base stealer and lead off hitter ever, R.I.P my friend.:(

Josh Monson

December 23, 2024

Rickey Henderson was a great ball player and all star

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Sign Rickey Henderson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 3, 2025

Carson Loveless posted to the memorial.

February 1, 2025

Sean McGrew posted to the memorial.

February 1, 2025

Jimmy Dean Neal posted to the memorial.