Environmental hero Stuart Henry dies at 77

Stuart Henry, one of Austin’s most respected environmental lawyers, passed away on Oct. 11 at the age of 77. Henry, who served as the city of Austin’s first environmental officer and was a founder and chair of the board of the Save Our Springs Alliance, was a well-known advocate for environmental causes. His obituary notes, “Stuart practiced environmental law in Austin for 40 years, and was a force to be reckoned with. He was a champion for land, water and wildlife. His dedication and hard work laid the groundwork for water conservation and wildlife protection that inspired many young lawyers to fight the good fight on behalf of Mother Earth. … (He was) a staunch advocate and voice of the Sierra Club, and much more. He led the federal lawsuit to protect the Edwards Aquifer and won. His positive impact lives on through Texas water policy and in those he mentored and inspired.” Even though he retired from practice, he recently represented Protect Our Water of Dripping Springs. He is survived by his wife, Virginia, and two sons, Christopher and David. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 200 W. Anderson Lane, Austin. In lieu of flowers, the obituary says please consider giving to the Friends Foundation, Dripping Springs. Alternatively, plans are underway to establish a fellowship in Stuart’s name for aspiring lawyers who seek to make a real difference for environmental protection. If you are interested in contributing, please contact Myron Hess at Myron@Myronhess.com.