of North Little Rock, AR
June 8, 1923 - September 5, 2023
Joseph Thomas Blackwell of North Little Rock, 100, died September 5, 2023.
He was born June 8, 1923 in Hoxie, Arkansas, the son of the late Riley J. and Cora H. Blackwell. The family moved to Anderson, Indiana in 1935 and Mr. Blackwell graduated from high school in that city.
He served in the Navy on the patrol craft Canastota, USS PC-1135 in the South Pacific during World War II. The crew of this vessel was awarded the Bronze Star for sinking a Japanese Submarine I-32 on the 24th of March 1944. Mr. Blackwell settled in North Little Rock after the war. It was then, through the help of his sister, Bonnie Sue that he met Iris Lynette Yarbrough. They were married June 6th, 1946.
Mr. Blackwell retired as Technical Service Manager of Arkansas Best Freight System in 1988.
He was a member and deacon of Baring Cross Baptist Church. He was a former assistant Scout Master with Troop 185 of Gardner Memorial and Scout Master with Troop 300 at Baring Cross. He was also a recipient of the Order of the Arrow.
In his earlier years he was an avid duck hunter and fisherman. In later years he laid down his gun and poles and picked up golf. Even in Dads early 90's we played his ball more often than one of ours in our brothers/dad matches.
He is survived by two sons, Michael T Blackwell (Madeline) of North Little Rock and Dennis J. Blackwell (Rhonda) of Maumelle; three grandchildren, Brittney L. Blackwell of North Little Rock; David J. Blackwell of Maumelle and Leah N. Blackwell of Maumelle and one great-granddaughter, Iris Olivia Schroeder of North Little Rock.
He was predeceased by his wife of 72 years, Iris Yarbrough Blackwell and two sisters, Vivian Salyer Dye and Bonnie Sue McGinley.
The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude for the care their father received from the entire staff at Willow Grove Assisted Living in Sherwood and Willow Grove Memory Care Facility in Maumelle.
Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. and funeral services at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 11th at Roller-Owens Funeral Home at 5509 JFK in North Little Rock. Interment will follow at Rest Hills Memorial Park.
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8 Condolence(s)
Rhonda Stane
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Mr. Blackwell was such a great gentleman. He was so kind and warm. We were so honored to have him live with us here at Willow Grove of Maumelle. He will be missed by all. Such a nice and wonderful family that he had. You all are in our prayers.
Barry Walker
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Dear Mike and Dennis,
My sincere condolences to you and family in the loss of your beloved and much admired father. It was my privilege every time I encountered, supported and fellowshipped with him. I learned much from him, his wisdom, cheerful spirit and devoted Christian life. He was well loved and supported by his sons.
Continued prayers,
Barry Walker
John Hess
Sunday, September 10, 2023
Mike, Dennis and family,
So sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all, and may Gods peace be with you.
Dan and Connie Baw
Friday, September 8, 2023
Mike and family — your folks and mine went to Baring Cross together back when we were all much younger. Our prayers are with you.
Rev. Paul Graves, Sr.
Thursday, September 7, 2023
So sorry to hear news. Our prayers reach out to the Blackwell family. I was a a fellow employee with Joe, working in the office with ABF
equipment/personnel/records for twenty-two years until my retirement in 1981. Shared many stories, etc. (hunting, fishing, church) and many lunches together....God bless!
Fred Walker
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Mike
So sorry to hear of your loss. My parents thought so much of your Mother and Dad.
Prayers for you and your family.
Jeff Bryant
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Dennis, my mil lived next door to your dad at Willow Grove. I remembered him from our Boone Park days, when I saw his name on the door. When I would see him, he would always ask if I'd seen Iris. I'm sorry for your loss, but very glad your dad found Iris.
Connie Hansen
Wednesday, September 6, 2023
Mike, Dennis and families
So sorry for your loss. Your dad was a wonderful guy. He sure will be missed. He is now with Iris. It was a real honor to getting to know him and to take care of him.