Charles Arthur Shead

Charles Arthur Shead was born on December 30, 1941, in Austin, Texas, to Annie Mae and Charles James Shead. Baptized as a child, he grew up as an active member of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church. Charles discovered his love for the trombone early on, honing his talent under the tutelage of band director, Mr. B. L. Joyce, at L.C. Anderson High School. He graduated in May 1960. Charles continued his studies at Huston-Tillotson College, earning a B.A. in Music Education in 1964. Known affectionately as Charles “Trombone” Shead, he performed with the college band, participated in multiple clubs, joined Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, and later married Gloria Althia Mitchell-Shead in 1964.

After spending four years in education, Charles moved with Gloria to Bryan, Texas, where he served as band director for two years. The birth of their son Tracy in 1965 prompted a return to Austin, where Charles worked at the Special School of Texas. In 1968, Charles began graduate studies in Music Education at the University of Texas at Austin, and that same year, celebrated the arrival of his daughter Lisa. The family moved to San Antonio in 1972, welcoming their third child, Gina, in 1973.

Shortly after moving to San Antonio, Charles and his family joined Bethel A.M.E. Church, where he devoted his time and talents to numerous ministries for over 45 years. He was a devout worshipper in the music ministry, sharing his formal music training as a member of the Voices of Praise Choir, the Bethel Aires Choir, the Southwest Conference Choir, and the 10th Episcopal District Choir. Charles also served in other roles including trustee, church school teacher, care ministry, and scholarship committee member.

In San Antonio, Charles began his career with the Texas Youth Council as a parole officer and later served as a technician/counselor with the Texas Rehabilitation Commission, supporting juvenile parolees and rehabilitation clients. In 1975, he made history as San Antonio’s first Black U.S. probation officer, serving in that role for more than 23 years before retiring. His duties included supervising probationers and parolees, preparing court reports, and drafting documents for the U.S. Parole Commission. Charles also remained actively involved in the Federal Probation and Pretrial Services Officers Association and Crosspoint Inc., earning several awards for his dedication to helping others.

Charles was energetic and full of life. He enjoyed family vacations, holiday gatherings, and supporting his mother’s greenhouse nursery business. He was a loyal fan of Texas A&M football, the Dallas Cowboys, and the San Antonio Spurs.

Charles is survived by his children: Tracy F. Shead of Kyle, Texas; Lisa Shead Barr (Lewis) and Gina A. Shead, both of San Antonio, Texas. He is also remembered by his sister Gloria Ann Wilson of Austin, sister-in-law Barbara Shead of Houston, brother-in-law Walter T. Mitchell (Ruby) of Austin, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles James Shead (Annie); his wife, Gloria Althia Mitchell-Shead; and his brother, Jesse Lee Shead.