Harold Edward Englert

Harold Edward Englert, 85, of Henrico, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Born in Goochland in 1939 to Edward and Joanna (Johnson) Englert, Harold graduated from Goochland High School in 1956 and joined the Corps of Cadets at Virginia Tech, where he studied engineering. Driven by a deep sense of patriotism, Harold enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. His mechanical skills, honed by tinkering with farm machinery, found a crucial outlet at McChord Air Force Base in Tacoma, Washington, during the Vietnam War. As an aircraft mechanic, he meticulously prepared F-106 Delta Darts for their missions. His letters home reveal both his dedication to each pilot’s safety and his joy in their safe return.

Upon completion of service, Harold came home to Virginia where he met his beloved wife, Marcia Pitts, affectionately known as “Marty.” They married in 1964 and shared 54 years together until Marty’s passing in 2018.

For 40 years, Harold was an engineer at Columbia Gas, keeping a watchful eye on the safety of natural gas pipelines. It was the perfect job for him - he was technically brilliant, a quick thinker, and genuinely cared about people's safety. He drove one of Virginia’s first natural gas-powered vehicles, and given his daily presence in the field, Marty would playfully tease him about the acuity of his mercaptan-sniffing abilities. Harold, ever quick with dry wit, would reply, “Nothing has exploded – yet.”

Harold generously poured his energy into helping others. He was a lifelong supporter of Virginia Blood Services where he consistently donated blood for 50 years and served for two decades as a blood transportation specialist, delivering vital blood and platelets to hospitals. His contributions earned him seven Volunteer of the Year awards from the organization. In one acceptance speech, Harold spoke of the profound satisfaction he derived from being on call for emergencies and helping others in their moment of greatest need.

A 50-year member and past president of the Short Pump Ruritan Club, commander of American Legion Post 84 and rifle corps member, Harold provided military honors at veterans’ funerals throughout Richmond for decades. He served as an election officer in Henrico for 25 years and volunteered weekly at the Virginia War Memorial since 2008, welcoming visitors and retiring U.S. flags. A proud trustee of Battery Park Christian Church, Harold cherished the opportunity to support his church and practice his faith alongside dear friends.

In recent years, Harold mourned Marty's passing and the loss of his siblings, Gordon, Audrey, and Marian. Yet, always optimistic and determined, he embraced the vibrant community at Avery Point, speaking often about the friendships he made with residents and staff. His passing was unexpected and too soon. Harold’s smile and humor are greatly missed.

Harold is survived by his faithful sidekick, Pebbles; a niece, Donalda Turner Chumney; sisters-in-law Darline Englert (Gordon) of Goochland, Nancy Burford (Doug) and Mary Beth Heggie (Lawson), both of Richmond; brothers-in-law Morris Pitts, Jr. (Winnie), Douglas Pitts, and Scott Pitts (Laurie) of Caroline County, their children and grandchildren; a goddaughter, Heather Crone Ross, and a host of devoted friends.

A celebration of Harold’s life will be held on March 4 at Battery Park Christian Church. A reception will begin at noon, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 p.m. Interment with full military honors will follow at Greenwood Memorial Park. The family will receive visitors on March 3 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Woody Parham Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Battery Park Christian Church Benevolent Fund.