HERBERT ANDERSON III

Herbert James Anderson III, aka Herb, gained his heavenly wings on March 10, 2024, at age 55. He leaves a massive hole in the hearts of his family, friends, co-workers, and former teammates, who were constantly entertained by his stories and hilarious sense of humor. He truly brought life to every room he entered.

Herb (Herbie to family) was born on November 19, 1968, in San Antonio, Texas, to Herbert James Anderson, Jr. and Julian “Judy” Ardell Anderson. According to his family, Herb had lots of energy and a knack for adventure and sports. He grew up in Port Arthur, Texas, where he confessed his belief in Christ and was baptized at an early age. Herb was an active youth member at First Sixth Street Baptist Church under the pastorship of Rev. Ransom Howard. He also participated in the Sunshine and Youth Choirs, Junior Usher Board, and Drama Ministry, with his mom serving as Youth Director.   

Herb was a standout baseball, football, and track and field youth athlete. He participated in little league teams, forming lifelong friendships with his teammates. A varsity letterman at Thomas Jefferson High School (Yellowjackets), Herb achieved many awards and set school and district records in football and track. He played in the Houston Astrodome when the Yellowjackets Football Team competed in the Texas High School Football state tournament. After graduating high school in 1987, he continued his education and football career with a full athletic scholarship at Texas A&M University—Kingsville (formerly Texas A&I University).

College was a pivotal moment in Herb’s life. He kept his eyes on the prize—an expression Herb’s mom often made—and ultimately decided to attend Texas A&I and play cornerback as a true freshman, which paved the way for him to achieve his childhood dream of becoming an NFL football player. He helped the Javelina Football Team win the Lone Star Conference Championship in 1987 and 1989 and reach the conference semi-finals in 1988. As a four-year letterman, Herb was a 1989 All Lone-Star Conference player, 1990 All Lone-Star Conference first-team defensive back, 1990 Texas A&I’s Most-Valuable Defensive Player of the Year, and a 1990 Blue and Grey College All-star, where he played alongside the country’s most elite college football players. 

Herb was drafted by the Phoenix Cardinals in 1991, a dream come true. Shortly after, he signed a free-agent contract with the Houston Oilers. He was assigned to the practice squad and played special teams. Herb left the Oilers and finished his NFL career at the Kansas City Chiefs, but he never lost his love for football. He began to mentor young athletes in their quest to be better students first and athletes second. He assisted his sister, Ja’Nise, in launching a nonprofit youth football and cheer program, The Jr. Brahmas, and coordinated speed and agility camps (Top Tier Athletics), where he bestowed valuable knowledge to San Antonio’s up-and-coming athletes. 

Adored by his coworkers, Herb influenced the room’s energy with his infectious free spirit. He was beloved by everyone who ever met him, had a caring heart, and often helped anyone in need. He was a concerned neighbor and loyal friend gifted in winning friends. He was a humorous and captivating storyteller. No matter the circumstance, you'd always leave with a story of something funny or crazy Herb did while you were with him. He lived without limitations or reservations, leaving a legacy of memories for family, friends, and coworkers to cherish and share for many years.   

Herb is survived by his father, Herbert James Anderson, Jr.; his sisters, Toya Drake (Vernon) and Ja’Nise Anderson Solitaire (John); his sons Jonathan Anderson, Aaron Anderson, and Donovan Vela; his daughters Lakayzha Jones and Malaisha Anderson; and his chosen children, including Quitney Hodge. He will also be missed by nieces, nephews, aunts, and cousins, all of whom he loved deeply. 

Herb is now at peace, joining his beloved mother, Judy, and an infant sister, Herminia Delores Anderson. That is one fun party re-united! He will never be forgotten but forever be remembered and missed by all fortunate enough to know him.