Henry Charles Drew, III

In loving memory of Henry Charles Drew III, affectionately known as Heintz, who galloped into eternity on December 28, 2023, at the age of 72. Born on November 1, 1951, in Covington, Kentucky, Henry left hoofprints on our hearts and a trail of laughter in his wake.

Heintz was a true champion, a devoted family man who trotted through life with a zest for living. He was the mane attraction, a devoted father, husband, sibling, uncle, and son who never horsed around when it came to loving his family. With a comedic spirit that would make even the grumpiest mule crack a smile, he always had a tail... I mean, tale to share. No matter the situation, he could whip out a joke faster than a jockey on a racehorse.

While not exactly a tech-savvy stallion, Heintz mastered the art of the old flip phone, using it to connect with the most important foals in his life. He was a people's champion, never hoofing an enemy and brightening the day of every filly, colt, or random person he encountered on his equine journey.

In his professional career, Heintz galloped through the world of horse racing, experiencing the thrill of the track and the thundering hooves that fueled his passion. He also left his hoofprint at Radial, where he was renowned as the hardest worker who knew how to bring the fun. But his true calling was being an Umpire, where he umpire-sonally impacted the lives of countless kids, guiding them to home runs and stealing their hearts. For him, it was all about the kids, and their achievements made him prouder than a thoroughbred winning the Kentucky Derby.

Heintz was a respected member of the NKBUA, where his respect for fellow umpires was returned with a tenfold gallop.

When it came to worship, Heintz found solace and inspiration at Seven Hills Church, where he could neigh-spread his spiritual wings. But his true passion was racing to the tracks, particularly his annual trips to Keeneland. He loved watching sports and action movies, proving that he had a real "reel" love for excitement. And when it came to animals, he had a heart as big as a stable, making him one of the most "pawsome" animal lovers the world has ever seen.

In a final act of generosity, Heintz bequeathed his body to the University of Cincinnati Medical School, ensuring that his legacy would continue to trot alongside the next generation of doctors. So, let's raise our glasses and toast to a life well-lived, as we anticipate the details of a Celebration of Life that will have us all jumping fences with joy.

In memory of Heintz, instead of showering him with flowers, let's honor his spirit by donating to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Together, we can make a difference and create a legacy as grand as Heintz's hoofprints in our hearts.

Heintz leaves behind a trail of cherished memories and a loving herd, including his wife, Sandra Johnson, his children Annie Harrison, Joe Harrison, and Summer Schneider, his granddaughter Alexis Harrison, his brothers Dennis (Sharon) Drew, Gary Drew, and Don (Sue) Drew, his best friend Tracy Beard, a stampede of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a whole corral of aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Drew Jr., his mother, Marilyn Drew, and his life partner, Virginia Sligh.

So, let's remember Heintz as the spirited, pun-loving stallion he was. His laughter will forever echo in our hearts, reminding us to embrace life's hurdles with a playful gallop and to cherish the joy found in the company of loved ones. Giddy up, Heintz, and may you forever ride on the winds of laughter and love.