R.D. Blackburn

A memorial service for Robert Dulaney Blackburn will be held at 10 a.m. March 20 in Murphree Cemetery, Evant.

Mr. Blackburn passed away Feb. 14, 2021, in Pasadena.

R.D. was born April 19, 1938, in Hamilton, to Jack Blackburn and Vera Hopson Blackburn. He graduated from Hamilton High School in 1956 where he was affectionately known as Tea Bag.

After graduation, he joined the Marines. He was honorably discharged because of an old injury.

He married Sandra Kay Gee Dr. 15, 1961, in Fort Worth.

He was a commercial welder for many years and an expert at his job. He loved to draw. He drew beautiful scenery and beds he built from iron. He could usually be found at Storms or Dairy Queen having coffee with friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Evalene Blackburn and Donna Donahoo; and brother Jackie Blackburn.

He leaves behind his wife; sisters Betty Weeks and husband Gail, Teresa Cathy and husband Bobby and Glenda Shinn and husband C.E.; brother Bill Blackburn; sister-in-law Jimmie Blackburn; and many nieces and nephews.

In 1962 he worked at NASA in the Gemini Program office in the Mission Planning Area. He worked on various projects on the launch window philosophy for the rendezvous mission. He worked with Flight Crew Support Division and began working on the Apollo Program after the Gemini Missions.

He worked on many projects for Apollo Missions and later reviewed and analyzed the missions.

William was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved to fish, hunt and garden.

William is survived by his high school sweetheart, Koleta Morrison; son William D. Morrison; and grand daughters Leah Morrison and Megan Morrison.

Memorial donations may be made to Hamilton Public Library or charity of your choice.

No services are scheduled at this time.