Henry Arthur Saye, Sr.

May 10, 1935 – August 22, 2025

Henry Arthur Saye, Sr., 90, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025.

Born in Oxford, North Carolina, on May 10, 1935, Henry was the son of the late James Angus Saye and Muriel Heard Saye. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, James Angus Saye, Junior and Earle Thomas Saye.

Henry is survived by his devoted wife, Jane Keith Saye; his son, Henry (Hank) Saye, Jr. and wife Lisa; and his daughter, Susan Saye Crews and husband Jimmy. He was the proud grandfather of seven: Hank Saye III (Andrea), Amy Matthews (Ryan), Laura Phillips (Brandon), Ginna Van Zandt (Tyler), Jim Crews (Lindsay), Katie Crews (JT), and William Crews. His legacy continues through his fourteen great-grandchildren.

Henry built his life's work around excellence and integrity. In 1983, he founded Republic Refrigeration, Inc., a company respected nationwide for delivering unsurpassed industrial refrigeration solutions through outstanding design, installation, and maintenance for North America's controlled environment industries. He was deeply admired in his field for his high standards, his commitment to caring for both employees and customers, and his vision for building something lasting and impactful. He also served his industry through involvement and leadership in numerous organizations and committees.

Outside of work, Henry found joy in simple pleasures. He loved spending time with his family, relaxing at the lake, and supporting academics and athletics for his beloved Alma Mater Georgia Institute of Technology. Those who knew him will remember his warm presence, his generosity, and his gift for storytelling.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to AuthoraCare Collective, 914 Chapel Hill Rd, Burlington, NC 27215.

The family will hold a private service.