It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Harold Dean Blakeley age 91, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who departed this world peacefully at home on May 26, 2026, after a courageous battle with health issues. Harold was born on February 17, 1935 in Gilmer Texas to Lawrence and Nancy Ella (Brown) Blakeley, in a time and place where values of hard work, faith, and family were deeply cherished. Harold was predeceased by his cherished wife, Cecil Mae (Holland) Blakeley who he married October 2, 1953. Parents, and siblings Bob Blakeley, Ramon Eugene Blakeley, and Margie Blakeley Rodgers. He is survived by his devoted children: daughter Nancy Jane Cole and her husband Mike, son Mark Shane Blakeley, son Daniel Harold Blakeley and his wife Gina, and daughter Stephenie Ruth Blakeley. His legacy extends to his ten grandchildren—Keith, Pam, Kimberly, Kevin, Brian, Caleb, Hannah, Kayla, Brianna, and Rylee—and ten great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense pride and joy to his life. Harold was a proud alumnus of Gladewater High School and built a fulfilling career as a Machinist, dedicating his skills and passion to companies such as Lone Star Steel, Letourneau, USI, LTV, and finally Haliburton, from which he retired. His work ethic and commitment were paralleled by his faith and community involvement as an active member of Victory Church. An avid gardener, Harold found solace and joy in nurturing plants, herbs, and fresh vegetables, sharing the fruits of his labor with those around him. His love for the Dallas Cowboys was only rivaled by his passion for everything mechanical—be it cars, tractors, or any machinery that needed a tender touch. In quieter moments, he was often found with a book in hand, lost in the realms of imagination or knowledge. Harold's life was a testament to his deep commitment to God and his family. His quick wit, beautiful singing voice, and wise words, always rooted in biblical principles, were blessings to all who knew him. His legacy of love, wisdom, and integrity will continue to inspire his family and community. A service to honor Harold's life will be held at Crowley Funeral Home in Diana, Texas. As the family grieves the loss of their beloved patriarch, they wish to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Chambers Hospice Care for their compassionate support during Harold’s final days. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to remember Harold by planting something beautiful in his memory, as he would have done. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory be a guiding light for all who knew and loved him.

The service will be Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel at 11 am with visitation one hour prior to the service.