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| Vol. 22, No. 16 |
| September 1, 2000 |
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TMC Philanthropist Earned Respect Through Quiet Contributions By Kathleen Charter Texas Medical Center News Whether it was through philanthropic works, or through the gift of his time and energy, Henry Markley Crosswell, Jr. was highly respected by all. Born in 1915, this native Houstonian, known to his friends as Mark, quietly went about his good works. "He was a very behind-the-scenes type guy, low-key, and didn't want credit for most of what he did," says Holcombe Crosswell, the eldest son of Mr. Crosswell. "He never blew his own horn." Burnt orange was just one of the many colors that made up the rainbow of Mr. Crosswell's life. He received a B.B.A. degree from The University of Texas at Austin in 1937, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity and the Texas Cowboys, an honorary society. In 1942 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Corps and was awarded a Bronze Medal, given for valor. In addition to his business and community interests, Mr. Crosswell led a very active life. He belonged to many clubs, including the Houston Country Club, River Oaks Country Club and Lakewood Yacht Club. Mr. Crosswell was an avid golfer, loved boating, and hunted deer, quail and duck. According to Holcombe Crosswell, his father's greatest philanthropic contribution was his support of the Texas Medical Center. "He was involved in many organizations, but it was probably the time and energy expended on behalf of the Texas Medical Center that was his greatest contribution." Mr. Crosswell believed in Houston's healthcare system and the good that it could do for the community. He served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Medical Center for more than 38 years, and was a former vice president of the Board. In 1985, he was elected as a Life Member of the Board of Directors. During his tenure, he also served as a member and Chairman of the Board's Land Acquisition Committee. His greatest attributes were honesty, humility and a great sense of humor, which earned him the highest respect of his peers and the Houston community. Henry Markley Crosswell, Jr. passed away on Aug. 18, 2000.
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