Edward J. Blackburn

Edward Joseph Blackburn peacefully passed away Saturday, February 27, 2016 surrounded by family at 92 years young. Ed was born March 12, 1923 to Thomas Raymond and Edna Kihnel Blackburn in Houston, Texas. He married the love of his life Janice Godine April 10, 1948 and for 53 years was devoted to her, remaining that way until his passing. Preceding Edward in death were his wife Janice and son-in-law Mark. He is survived by 3 sons and a daughter; Eddie Blackburn Jr. and wife Mary, Chris Blackburn and wife Ann, Jerry Blackburn and wife Alice, Kitty Blackburn Hoelter; 6 grandchildren, Kate, Nicholas, Robert, Stephannie, Matthew, Katie; 4 great-grandchildren, Sam, Chloe, Grace, Thalia, a 5th arriving in June. Survivors also include nephews, nieces and their spouses Thomas Blackburn III (Lilla), Mary Jane Smith (Jerry), Lora Lou Miral (Pierre), Colleen Ryan (2011) (Jim), Maureen Jennings (Jeff), Bridget Heno, Holli Godine Gilbert (Bob), Todd Godine, Scott Godine; 19 great nieces and nephews; and 22 great-great nieces and nephews, the 23rd arriving in March. He was loved and admired by all.

Ed attended Sacred Heart Catholic grade school, proudly graduated from St. Thomas College (HS) in 1940, studied Electrical Engineering at Perdue University and the University of Houston. He proudly served his country during WWII as a member of The “Ozarks” - 102nd Infantry Division in France, Holland, and Germany. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster by the U.S. Army.

As a loyal father, Ed coached his sons Little League Base Ball teams. As a father to an only daughter, he was gentle, insightful and ever patient. He enjoyed the outdoors, played Tennis weekly and Senior Citizen’s Soft Ball until age 80.

After the war, Ed (aka “Blackie”) began his career with Sperry Sun as a surveyor and salesman prior to joining his brother Raymond as a part owner of Thomas Instrument and Machine. He was a 65-year member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church, serving in many roles including lectern, Eucharistic minister, Pack Leader of Boy Scouts Troop 280, and a key player of the Annual Bazaar BBQ team. Ed Blackburn’s final contribution, perhaps greatest contribution spanned over 32 years and became known as the Holy Ghost Stained Glass Group. As team leader and under then Pastor, the Rev. Rob Rhunke, Ed trained dozens of “novices” to accomplish a long time dream he had. He and volunteers worked side by side, including daughter Kitty, grand-daughter Katie, on the artistic creation, glass cutting, window formation, construction and installation of Biblical scenes, all depicted in stained glass windows now in Holy Ghost Catholic Church and Rectory. Edward was forever a true servant to God and with a special devotion to the Blessed Mother Mary. Many of us are left with fond and loving memories to cherish for years to come.

May Edward rest in peace.

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In lieu of flowers, the family wishes you consider a donation to either St. Thomas High School,

Holy Ghost Catholic Church, or a Charity of your choosing.

Visitation: 6-8 pm, and Rosary recited: 7:30 pm, March 2 / Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home at 6700 Ferris, Bellaire, TX 77401

Catholic Funeral Mass, 10 am, March 3 / Holy Ghost Catholic Church at 6921 Chetwood, Houston, TX 77081