Brian Leigh Humphrey's Obituary
Brian Humphrey stepped up to the plate of life on December 7, 1953, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as the firstborn son of Billie Gene "Bill" Humphrey and Marcia (Pantel) Humphrey. He later welcomed a younger brother, Bruce, into the lineup.
Brian attended Nathan Hale High School in Tulsa and began playing baseball. His talent on the field quickly caught the attention of college scouts across the nation. Brian's love for the game led him to the University of Tulsa (TU), where he played for the Golden Hurricane and helped lead his team to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.
While at TU, Brian met fellow student Shari Stewart, who turned out to be an even better recruiter than Brian's former legendary TU coach, Gene Shell. Shari and Brian united in marriage on November 20, 1976, signing a lifelong partnership. Together, they added two to their team roster: a daughter, Amanda, and a son, Brett.
Tragically, on September 18, 2011, Brian experienced a significant loss with the passing of his beloved Shari. Despite this heartbreak, Brian continued to show up for his children in every way. He never missed a game, and although he may have been ejected from one or two, his enthusiasm never waned. By his children's accounts, Brian hit it out of the park as a father.
In his professional life, Brian worked in sales, primarily in the insurance industry. Outside of work, he loved watching sports and was devoted to South Tulsa Baptist Church. As a greeter and a golf cart driver, he enjoyed shuttling folks to the front door, always with a smile and warm conversation.
Known for his gregarious and social nature, Brian was charismatic, passionate, and deeply loving. Even as he battled declining health after suffering a major stroke in 2021, Brian's joy remained unwavering. His resilience and positivity inspired everyone who knew him. Brian was a leader on and off the field to all who encountered him.
Brian's team continued to grow with the marriages of his children and the arrival of his grandchildren. He proudly called himself their "#1 Fan" and reminded his family often that he loved them "more than they would ever know".
Brian crossed home plate during the early morning hours of Monday, February 17, 2025 at the age of 71. He was welcomed into eternity by his parents and his beloved wife, Shari.
He is survived by his daughter, Amanda Baird, and son-in-law, Bradey; his son, Brett Humphrey, and daughter-in-law, Erin; and his four grandsons, Ben, Beckham, Bo, and Blake Brian, with another, Eli, being called up from the minors in May of 2025. He is also survived by his brother, Bruce, along with many other family members, friends and teammates.
Brian's legacy of love and joy will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring Brian through a memorial donation to Clarehouse (https://www.clarehouse.org/donate/).
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