Halbert Brinson

1933 - 2026

Halbert Felton Brinson, devoted husband, father, grandfather, scholar, and pioneering engineer, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born in Beaufort, North Carolina, to Samuel Felton Brinson and Florence Elizabeth Garner Brinson, Hal was the youngest of seven children. He was preceded in death by his parents and his six siblings. Growing up in a large family shaped his steady independence, quiet strength, and lifelong appreciation for close family bonds.

Hal earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Civil Engineering through the ROTC program at North Carolina State University and went on to receive his Ph.D. from Stanford University. He devoted his professional life to engineering education and research, serving as Professor of Engineering Mechanics at Virginia Tech, later as Dean of Engineering at UTSA, and as Professor and Deputy Director of the Composites Engineering and Applications Center at the University of Houston.

Throughout his distinguished career, Hal stood at the forefront of science and engineering in the development of polymer composites and adhesion science. He founded the Center for Adhesion Science at Virginia Tech and maintained long-standing research relationships with NASA, the Office of Naval Research, Lockheed Aircraft Company, the National Science Foundation, and international partners in Belgium and France. His work earned international recognition, including an Honorary Doctorate from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel and prestigious awards such as the Murray Medal and the Lazan Award from the Society for Experimental Mechanics.

Hal was also a dedicated mentor and teacher. His graduate students honored him with a chair engraved "Good Shepherd of Students," a tribute that reflected both his intellectual rigor and his genuine care for those he guided. He co-authored a book on Polymer Engineering Science and Viscoelasticity with his daughter, Cate Brinson - a collaboration that brought him great pride and joy.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Hal was a kind and loving family man. He enjoyed golf, reading, travel, and above all, time spent with those he loved. He brought thoughtfulness and steady strength to his family, and his presence will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife, Clara Brinson; his daughter, Cate Brinson; his son, Jon Brinson; and his four grandchildren, Max, Kasey, Tobin, and Elena Brinson.

A Graveside Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, February 20, 2026 at Calvary Churchyard in Fletcher, NC. Groce Funeral Home's Lake Julian team is assisting the family and a guest register is available online at grocefuneralhome.com.