Billy E. Blackwell

Billy E. Blackwell passed away at his home in Stuttgart on January 21, 2014, at the age of 84. Billy is predeceased by his parents, Ruth Helene Emma Schumacher and Bill Blackwell, and a sister Shirley Ann Blackwell. Billy is survived by his loving wife Loretta of 57 years. They were married at St. John's Lutheran Church in Stuttgart on August 26, 1956. Billy will be remembered with love and affection by his daughters, Terri (Steve) Weaver and Tiffany (Russell) Rogers, both of Stuttgart; his grandson, Wade (Paige) Weaver and his great granddaughter, Adelynn Grace of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is also survived by a brother, Don Blackwell of Bryant and a sister, Donna Ruth Gunnell of Casscoe. Billy was born in Stuttgart, Arkansas, on March 8, 1929. He was baptized into the Lutheran faith on May 26, 1929. He was confirmed on February 21, 1943. He graduated from Stuttgart High School in May, 1947. He joined the US Navy in September, 1947 and served through February, 1950. Billy was employed at Riceland Foods, Inc. from 1950-1987, and worked in many departments throughout that time. Billy was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Stuttgart where he served the church in many capacities. Billy enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, yard work and watching sports of any kind. He and Loretta were avid Arkansas Razorback and Dallas Cowboy fans and enjoyed traveling to support the teams. He especially loved time he spent with his grandson and sidekick Wade. He also enjoyed Ricebird football and followed the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals during baseball season. The visitation will be held at St. John's Lutheran Fellowship Hall at Fourth and College on Friday, January 24, 1 p.m. The funeral service will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church on Friday, January 24, 2 p.m. with Pastor Don White officiating. Burial will follow at Lone Tree Cemetery. The family suggests memorial donations may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.turpin-co.com. The family also thanks Hospice Home Care for their loving care and compassion provided during this time.