Eldred Edwin Blackwell

October 7, 1932 - November 28, 2021

Eldred Edwin Blackwell was born October 7, 1932 in Forest, Louisiana to Loyd and Josie Blackwell. Ed graduated from Forest High School and then attended and played basketball at Baylor University where he graduated in 1954. Upon graduation Ed began his career in the Air Force in 1955. He served as a pilot and flew in Vietnam as commander of his squadron. After Vietnam he served in the NSA, various Security Service positions and ended his 30 year career as Chief of Staff for the Electronic Security Command of the Air Force at the rank of Colonel. He was an active member of Oak Ridge Baptist Church, San Antonio, Texas. Ed was an avid golfer for many years and enjoyed meeting with friends for golf and lunches. He and Dolores also owned an RV that crossed the country on many travel trips during their retirement years. He also enjoyed reading throughout his life and passed his love of books on to his kids and grandkids. Ed’s later life included trips and recreational activities with his social circle of friends at Oak Ridge Baptist Church. Ed was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Ruby Dolores Blackwell, in 2004 and his brother William L. Blackwell. He is survived by his three children, Ken (Melinda)of Cave Springs Arkansas, Brenda of San Antonio and Brian of Austin, TX. Also 2 grandchildren Alicia (Nathan) Brown and Ryan (Rachel) Blackwell, plus 7 great grandchildren Will, Kate, Eli, Liv, Brady, Allie and Mae. He is also survived by sister Kathryn Sanders of Forest, LA and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation for family and friends will be held at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North 3401 Cherry Ridge Dr. San Antonio, TX 78230 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM on Sunday, December 19, 2021. Funeral service at Mission Park North Funeral Chapels North at 10:00 AM on Monday, December 20, 2021. Interment to follow with military honors at Ft. Sam Houston Houston National Cemetery at 11:30 AM.