Harold Blackshear

Colonel (Ret) Harold H. Blackshear, United States Air Force, and twin sister Carol Seely, the last of eight children, were born on December 15, 1929 in Waco, Texas to a Primitive Baptist Minister Elder and Mary Hallie Blackshear.

First and foremost, Colonel Blackshear was a loving family man who lived a life of service to others. Colonel Blackshear enlisted in the USAF 09 Aug 1948 and rose to the rank of Technical Sergeant as an A & E mechanic maintaining the T- 6 trainer and the F-51 Mustang fighter aircraft. After three years of architectural engineering studies at the University of Texas he received a commission in the Texas Air National Guard 6 June 1956 to attend pilot training, finishing at the top of his class. He accumulated 3,639 hours of flight time in all-weather fighter interceptors, tactical fighters and support aircraft. Command Pilot status proved invaluable, for expediting events, especially many life-saving mercy missions. His military education courses include: Basic and Advanced Pilot Training; Advanced Instrument Pilot Training; Base Civil Engineering; Air Crew Familiarization; Military Management, Environmental, and Employment; ADC Support Training and Life Support Training School; ANG OJT Trainers/Supervisor Orientation; Fire Protection Orientation; Industrial College of the Armed Forces; and the Air Command and Staff College. He became the Base Civil Engineer 1 December 1958.

Colonel Blackshear's work ethic, was mission oriented; as evident in unmatched performance as the Air Technician Base Civil Engineer and commander of the 149th Civil Engineering Squadron that maintained an unprecedented C-1 combat ready status. His base master planning proved invaluable setting standards, cutting costs, and building state of the art facilities. Colonel Blackshear's design of a first of its kind mobile hydraulically operated thrust frame supporting an engine test stand to provide safe 4 minute change over for use with a unique noise suppressor with either aircraft or engine, earned him the prestigious Texas Minute Man Award. His design of a highly specialized foundation and appurtenances for the first "Hush ¬House", a jet engine testing facility, resulted in building an additional 126 Air Force wide. All incorporated a replica of his thrust frame. He also is credited with the design and construction of the first military Non-Destruct Inspection Laboratory in which high-intensity x-rays detect imperfections in metal. Colonel Blackshear chaired a select group of Base Civil Engineers to develop a mission directive for a Civil Engineer Emergency Force. The resulting document is Air Force Instruction 10-210. It provides for skilled Rapid Repair ''Prime Beef” teams to be in place worldwide within 72 hours. For state employees, he developed a Career Progression Ladder which resulted in adoption of Senate Concurrence Resolution #08 effective state-wide. Colonel Blackshear served the National Guard Bureau during three one year terms as Chief Engineer of the ANG Civil Engineers Association. His final position with the Texas ANG was as Director of Plans, State Headquarters where he was promoted to Colonel receiving the Meritorious Service Medal. He retired from the Texas Military Forces on 31 March 1986. His career ending event occurred June 27, 2015, induction and instruments into the Texas Military Forces Hall of Honor. Colonel Blackshear's strong morale and religious convictions are well known and in his own words: "I have reverential appreciation for the opportunities with which I have been blessed knowing that I am not alone in my efforts.” An avid Barber Shopper and friend in harmony and Chordsmen 1960 International Champions, Marilyn, his best friend and wife, sang with the Friday Singers in nursing homes.

Seven days after his passing, Harold’s loving wife, Marilyn, joined him and our heavenly father for eternity, on August 16, 2024.

He is survived by his son Michael and daughters Jerri (Paul), Karen (George), Leslie (Gary). His grandchildren, Michael, Heather, Nicole (Richard), Jessica (Brandon), Erin, Lindsey and Taylor. And his great grandchildren David, Joshua, Geordan, Jacob, Jadon, Matthew, and Hallie. As well as wealth of additional family members.

Funeral and Burial will be held at Sunset Memorial Park and Funeral Home

1701 Austin Highway

San Antonio, TX 78218

On Sunday August 25, 2024

Visitation and Reflection Video: 11:30 - 12:30

Celebration of Life Service: 12:30 - 1:30

Burial: 1:30

Refreshments to follow at Bethany Primitive Baptist:

14203 Babcock Rd,

San Antonio, TX 78249

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Bethany Primitive Baptist Church. Funds may be mailed to Larry Angle:

10750 Elmendorf-Lavernia Road

San Antonio, TX 78223

We encourage you to share your memories. If you would like to share, please bring a *copy* of your pictures to place on the “memory table” for all to see.

For those who are unable to attend in person a live stream is available at this link:

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/11935924

Or you can click on the camera just below the service times for the Celebration of Life and Interment.