Jerry L Blackwell

Jerry Lynn Blackwell, 69 of Warsaw, IL formerly of Keokuk, died Monday, June 30, 2014 at his home. He was born December 3, 1944 in Keokuk, IA the son of Charles Hadley and Ardeth Lucille Johnson Blackwell. On September 30, 1971 he was united in marriage to Sheila Hawkins in Alexandria, MO. She survives. Other survivors include one son, Michael L. Blackwell of Keokuk, two daughters, Pamela A. Smith her husband Tony of Keokuk and Kimberly S. Harmon and her significant other Bill Jefferson of Keokuk, twelve grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, four brothers, Gale Blackwell of Keokuk, Lee Blackwell and his wife Beverly of Ft. Madison, IA, James Blackwell and his significant other Marlene Price of Keokuk and Larry Blackwell of Canton, IL, one sister-in-law, Patricia Gorman and her husband Tim of Keokuk and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and one son William Blackwell. Jerry was a veteran of the United States Navy and proudly served his country. He graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School in Keokuk with the Class of 1963. In his earlier years, Jerry had been employed at American Paper Company in Ft. Madison, IA then later opened Blackwell Home Improvement which he owned and operated for twenty years until his retirement in 2000. Jerry was a member of the American Legion Post 41 and St. Paul United Church of Christ in Keokuk, IA. Jerry enjoyed fishing and hunting pheasant. He was a talented woodworker and he had made dollhouses, cradles and garages for hot wheel cars for his grandchildren. His grandchildren were his pride and joy and he spent many hours entertaining them. A Memorial service was held at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 3rd, 2014 at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Keokuk with Lay Minister Joel Schlatter officiating. Burial with military rites was in the Oakland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the St. Paul United Church of Christ.