Harold Thomas Sisco

Harold Thomas (H.T.) Sisco passed away on November 19, 2024, at the age of 90. He was born in Memphis, TN, the son of Virl Pittman and Hazel Morine (Finch) Sisco. He was raised in Little Rock, Arkansas. He graduated from Harding college with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree, where he met Beverly Ann Thayer. They were married for over 66 years.

H.T. lived a life of service, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to his family, faith, and country.

A proud veteran, H.T. served in the U.S. Army active reserves for 6 years and dedicated 40 years of his life to working for the Department of Defense, primarily as a fuels chemist with the U.S. Air Force. His service took him around the world, including running the Fuels Lab for the Air Force in Saigon during the Vietnam War. He also ran a lab in England at Lakenheath AFB and in Okinawa at Kadena AFB.

H.T. was a man of strong character and values, always putting God first, followed by family and country. He attended several Churches of Christ throughout his life in Tampa. He served as a song leader and a deacon for many years. He was a member of the North Boulevard Church of Christ at the time of his passing.

H.T.’s life was also rich in personal passions. He enjoyed spending time with his family taking fishing trips and camping with the Boy Scouts. He was a huge football fan, with a special fondness for the Arkansas Razorbacks. He supported the Florida Gators, Florida State Seminoles, and USF Bulls, sharing countless games and memories with his family. H.T. was an avid motorsport enthusiast, particularly enjoying the Sebring 12-Hour sports car races, where he often camped out at the track with family and friends.

H.T.’s love of life extended to music and family gatherings. A gifted pianist, he spent many hours playing the piano, often accompanied by his wife’s sweet soprano voice. Harold and his family shared a deep bond over music and sports, creating memories that will last for generations.

H.T. and his wife shared the same love for nature and animals. Both were proud members of the Bromeliad and Tropical Plant Society of Tampa and cherished their many cats.

As a father, H.T. worked tirelessly to support his family. He always encouraged his children’s academic and athletic endeavors. At one point, he worked three jobs to help his children achieve their dreams—doing taxes for Jackson Hewitt, telemarketing, and his full-time job with the Air Force. He instilled in them the values of hard work, perseverance, and a positive attitude, often saying, "Your attitude determines your altitude," a phrase he passed down from his father.

In his retirement, H.T. continued to serve his community and loved spending time with his family.

H.T. is survived by his children, Lance Sisco and his wife Tina, Sherolyn Rymal and her husband Jim and Trent Sisco and his wife Patty; his grandchildren, Ashley Berrier, Sarah Rymal, Lindsay Jordan, Kalyn Sisco, Austin Sisco, Avery Sisco and Autumn Mennella; his great-grandchildren, Iris Jordan, Isaac Jordan, Luna Mennella, Eli Mennella; and his sister, Shirley Sisco Vaughn.

H.T. was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly; his parents, Virl Pittman and Hazel Morine (Finch) Sisco.

H.T. leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion to those who knew him. His selfless spirit, dedication, and service will never be forgotten.

The family is comforted by the knowledge that H.T.’s passing occurred during the week of Thanksgiving, a fitting tribute to the gratitude he expressed throughout his life. They are thankful for the 90 years shared and the incredible man he was. His memory will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation for Harold will be held Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories, 4207 E LAKE AVE, TAMPA, FL 33610. A funeral service will occur Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 4207 E LAKE AVE, TAMPA, FL 33610. A committal service at graveside will occur Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Garden of Memories, 4389 E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610.

Donations may be made to Special Operations Warrior Foundation in his honor by visiting https://specialops.org/contact/ or calling (813) 805-9400.