The baseball world is mourning the loss of Rickey Henderson. Revered for his career across nine teams and remembered as a great father and husband, the Hall of Famer passed away on Friday due to pneumonia, just days before his 66th on Christmas. Henderson’s wife Pamela and their three daughters, Angela, Alexis, and Adrianna, released a heartfelt statement confirming this sad news.

Pamela sent a statement that said, “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of my husband, Rickey Henderson. A legend on and off the field, Rickey was a devoted son, dad, friend, grandfather, brother, and uncle, and a truly humble soul. Rickey lived his life with integrity, and his love for baseball was paramount. Now, Rickey is at peace with the Lord, cherishing the extraordinary moments and achievements he leaves behind.”

Adrianna Henderson, the youngest daughter of the legend Rickey Henderson, held a special place in his heart. Adrianna has largely maintained a private life, yet, in some moments, the bond of the father-and-daughter duo has been evident; one such special night was at the Oakland Coliseum when the A’s honored their star during a bobblehead giveaway. Adrianna took center stage as she threw the ceremonial first pitch to her dad, who crouched behind the plate. The pitch ended perfectly in Henderson’s glove.

Bringing back Rickey Henderson for this tribute was a fitting nod to his fourteen long, electrifying seasons for the Oakland Athletics. The ‘man of steel’ had a gala time with his daughter Adrianna by his side, always holding his family close to his heart—back in 2009, when he gave the Hall of Fame speech, Henderson had given a shoutout to his children, saying, “To all my beautiful and intelligent daughters, I wouldn’t be a complete man without your love and support. I love you, girls.” 

Pamela, the support system behind Rickey Henderson

Rickey Henderson was a legend on the field, but even legends don’t rise alone. Henderson dedicated all that he achieved to his wife, Pamela, who has been by his side throughout his career. The two were high school sweethearts and tied the knot in 1983. During his 2009 Baseball Hall of Fame induction speech, Henderson took a moment to thank Pamela for her support.

After Henderson’s passing, Pamela shared a heartfelt statement: “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and heartfelt memories from family, friends, and fans—all of which have brought immense comfort. We also extend our sincere gratitude to MLB, the Oakland A’s, and the incredible doctors and nurses at UCSF who cared for Rickey with dedication and compassion.”

She also acknowledged everyone’s prayers and kindness mean a lot to the family, and that during the difficult time, she needed some privacy as the family now settles into life without Rickey Henderson. Before becoming one of baseball’s greatest players, Rickey initially dreamed of playing football during high school. He had once said, “When you think of me, I would like you to remember that kid from the inner city who played the game with all his heart and never took it for granted.”

Rickey Henderson and his legacy in the sport will be remembered by fans for years—which moment of his 25-year MLB career was your favorite? Share with us in the comments below.