Phillip Winston Hennigan, Sr. 70, of Center, passed away Friday, June 17, 2016 at his residence.

 

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 20, 2016 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Kevin Windham and Bro. D.J. Dickerson officiating. Burial will follow at Adams Cemetery in Shelbyville with military honors under the direction of the US Army Honor Guards. Visitation will be Sunday, June 19, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.

 

He was born April 10, 1946 in Jasper to Joseph Polk and Joye Wynell (Phillips) Hennigan. He was the middle child, the favorite, over his brother Gary and Sister, Connie. Phillip Hennigan, a former Major League Baseball player, played from 1969-1973 with the Cleveland Indians (Ohio) and the New York Mets. Hennigan attended Jasper High School, graduating in 1964. He then attended Sam Houston State University. He was drafted in fourth round by the Indians in 1966. Hennigan served in the US Army from 1966 to 1968 where he served during Vietman.  He made his debut with the Indians on Sept. 2, 1969. Hennigan pitched out of the Cleveland Indian bullpen from 1969-1972. He became the Indians’ ace reliever in 1971 going 4-3 with 14 saves, the 8th best in the American League. He was traded to Mets in 1972. After retiring from baseball, he joined the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for five years. He also has worked for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department and was later employed with the Center Police Department from 1995 -2012 where he retired as a Sergeant. He was a Peace officer for over 40 years.  Phil was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. He enjoyed spending time with Lynda Kaye and entertaining friends. The highlight of his life was watching baseball games with his sons and grandsons. He was especially proud of his grandson, Jonathan Hennigan for following in his footsteps. He dreamed of the day Zayne would be on the big field.  He and his wife attended Camp Springs Baptist Church in Hemphill.

 

He is preceded in death by his Parents, Joseph Polk and Joye Wynell (Phillips) Hennigan, Brother, Gary Hennigan and Son, Scotty Hennigan.

 

 

He is survived by:

Loving wife of 29 years:

Lynda K. Russell of Center

Sons:

Phil Hennigan & wife, Kim of Center

Steven Hennigan of Center