Henry Blackshear

Brother Henry Blackshear was born December 9, 1940, to the late Colandus Chatman Sr. and Mary Blackshear. He was a native of Crestview. He departed this life peacefully on Sunday afternoon, August 3, after returning home from worship service at Mt Zion A.M.E. Church. Attending church service was second nature to Bro. Blackshear. He loved God and his church.

That love is evident in much of the handy work done here at Mt. Zion over the years by he and his side-kick, Eli German. Henry attended Carver-Hill High School where he was an All-Star athlete. Henry retired from Chrysler Corporation in Detroit, Michigan after 30 plus years of employment. After retirement, he returned home to Crestview in 1998. Upon returning home he reunited with his church family at Mt. Zion. He hit the ground running and became the Trustee Prom-Tem and served under several pastors from then to the present. In this position, He was the master carpenter, electrician, plumber, lawn maintenance specialist an all-around handyman. If you broke it, he could fix it. Let us not forget his automobile mechanical skills…God Blessed Henry with a wealth of talent.

He was a loving husband, father, and the best friend you could ever have. As a champion to his community, he was always available to aid anyone in need. Those who knew him, loved him for his sense of humor. As the funniest man we ever knew he was good at making jokes, but just a little too loud. You could always count on Henry for a laugh til you cry moment, even at the oddest times.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, three siblings: Ernest, Ray and Sue Chatman. Henry's life and memories will be forever cherished by his loving wife of 23 years, Mrs. Helen Blackshear, six siblings: Colandus Chatman Jr. and wife Ruby, John Chatman, Laura Elaine Chatman, David Chatman and Michael Chatman; nine children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Let us remember the days we shared with Henry because he left an indelible mark on our lives, and he will be truly missed.