Henry Seward Shields

Lt. Colonel Henry Seward Shields passed away peacefully on Monday, March 20, 2023 after a brief illness. He was a proud veteran, world traveler, historian, and beloved member of his large extended family.

Born July 21,1943 in Hagerstown, Maryland, he was the son of the late Paull and Mary Weaver Shields. Following high school, Henry received a bachelors and masters degree from Franklin and Marshall University. Out of a great love for his country, he bravely served in the Air Force, earning many decorations, medals, and commendations including the Bronze Star. He served as an Intelligence Officer during the Vietnam War. Upon retirement from active duty, Henry began a lifelong civil-service career at the Department of Defense Intelligence Agency while living in Springfield, Virginia.

Henry fully retired in 2007 and moved from the D.C. area to be closer to his family in Charlotte, North Carolina. He loved nothing more than spending time with his extended family both young and old. Henry enjoyed sharing stories of his many adventures around the world, cooking, playing games with his "grandkids", collecting antiques, listening to classical music and devouring a delicious German meal. He will be especially remembered for his love of his family, generosity to those around him, quick wit and dry sense of humor.

Henry made an impact on many lives throughout his 79 years and his memory will be carried on by those who loved him. He leaves behind countless friends and family including Tamara Weaver Mackey Blattner, Kristan Mackey Gehrman, Kaitlyn Suzanne Gehrman, Jake Henry Gehrman, William Charles Gehrman, Scott Patrick Gehrman, Jennifer Mackey Zelinski, Matthew Daniel Zelinski, Hailey Anne Zelinski, Kimberly Kesler Franklin, Paull Seward Shields, Charles Stewart Weaver, Jean Foster Weaver, Carolyn Weaver Fernando, James Gallatin Mackey and the supportive staff and residents at The Haven in Pineville, NC.

A private interment with military honors is being planned for a later date in Harrisonburg, Virginia. For those wishing to send memorial gifts in Henry's honor, please consider Hospice & Palliative Care, Charlotte Region (www.hpccr.org).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com for the Shields family.