University Mourns Loss of Longtime Supporter Patti Henry Pinch

The University of Texas at Dallas is mourning the loss of longtime supporter Geraldine “Patti” Henry Pinch. She died Tuesday at the age of 88.

Her intelligence, humor and generosity infused her 30-year-relationship with UT Dallas, where she generously volunteered her time and resources.

“Patti was terrifically positive and a dynamic supporter of UTD,” said Dr. Hobson Wildenthal, president ad interim. “She was a loyal friend, whose enthusiasm and sense of fun elevated her impact on all of us who depended upon her.”

She joined the UT Dallas Development Board in 1983, and later served on the board’s executive committee as vice chair. She was a member of the committee for support of the engineering and computer science programs, and chaired the University’s annual fund campaign. She also volunteered her time as chairwoman of the School of Arts and Humanities Advisory Board.

President emeritus Robert Rutford admired her enthusiasm for UT Dallas.

“Patti and her first husband, Yank, were very active supporters of UT Dallas,” said Rutford, who served as president from 1982-1994. “I was lucky to inherit them when I came to UTD. She was a devoted supporter from the beginning.”

To recognize her dedication to UT Dallas, the Patti Henry Pinch Undergraduate Scholarship was created. As a result, more than 54 students have received funding for research and travel expenses while at UT Dallas. As a nod to her love of golf, each year the scholarship receives a boost from proceeds raised at the annual UT Dallas Golf Tournament and Scholarship Fundraiser. She was a Gold Sponsor of the tournament throughout its existence.  

“Patti was a tremendous friend and supporter,” said Dr. David E. Daniel, past president of UT Dallas and deputy chancellor and chief operating officer of the UT System. “Her smile, encouragement and enthusiasm will be missed but remembered and cherished by all who knew her.”

She was committed to helping young people better themselves through education. She set up the J.E. “Yank” Henry Memorial Endowed Scholarship to celebrate her beloved husband of more than 20 years and to assist UT Dallas students pursue their college dreams.

“Patti was one of the first people I met when I came to work at UT Dallas nearly a decade ago, and very kindly shared her knowledge of the place and its people,” said Susan Rogers, vice president for advancement. “She was on campus just this past winter to attend the State of the University address. She was as charming and effervescent as ever. We are very sad to lose her company.”

Proud of her Richardson roots, she worked to build a strong community where she lived. She was past president of the Richardson Woman’s Club and a dedicated volunteer for the Methodist Richardson Medical Center Foundation, which honored her with its Legacy Award.  

A viewing will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11, in the Abbey Chapel at Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Ave. in Dallas. Rosary will follow at 7:45 p.m. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 12, at All Saints Catholic Church, 5231 Meadowcreek Drive in Dallas.

Her family requests that any memorial gifts be made to her favorite causes: UT Dallas, Richardson Woman’s Club and Methodist Richardson Medical Center.