John T. Blackwell

John H. Blackwell, age 82, passed away on Sunday, September 10, 2023, at Anderson Regional Medical Center, in Meridian, MS.  Services will take place on Monday, September 25, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Newton, MS.

John was born on March 6, 1941, in Newton, MS to John (JB) and Mary Alice Gibbs Blackwell.  He attended Newton High School and completed his GED.  After that, John joined the US Navy and served a total of 11 years, 6 months and 24 days.  He served in Vietnam and on the Ticonderoga (CVA-14).  John received the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with device. He was honorably discharged on September 22, 1969 at the rank of Petty Officer 2^nd Class.  After his discharge, John was an engine mechanic, he loved to hunt and fish and he was the owner of Roberts Deer Club.  John married Rebecca Gordy Blakeney on May 17, 2002, in Rankin County, MS.

John was preceded in death by his parents, JB and Mary Alice Gibbs Blackwell, his brothers and sisters, Bubba Blackwell, Dannie Blackwell, Jerry Blackwell, Bonnie B. Blackwell Bleck, Diane Blackwell Nelson and Mary Ann Gould.  He is survived by his wife, Rebecca (Gordy) Blackwell of Lawrence, MS; his brother, Leon (Sonny) and Cheryl Blackwell of Fritch, TX and devoted nieces, nephews and their children.