John M. Blackwell 1948-2023

Pastor Blackwell was born Aug. 28, 1948, in Emporia, Va., a son of Clarence and Bessie Hawkins Blackwell. He was a graduate of Chaney High School and received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Youngstown State University and his Ph.D. in theology from Ashland Theological Seminary.

He was pastor of Courts of Praise Church of God in Christ and a member of the Ohio Central East Jurisdiction C.O.G.I.C. under Prelate Bishop David L. Herron.

He had been employed as a corrections officer and intake officer with the Ohio State Penitentiary.

He was a U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart for his service.

He leaves to cherish his memory, but to rejoice in his eternal peace, his beloved wife, the former Jeri Phillips, whom he married July 17, 1976; two children, John (Victoria) Blackwell Jr. of Warren and Kisharra (Richard) McBride of Youngstown; a foster daughter who was like a true daughter, Destiny; four grandchildren, Nadiyah, Austin, Dallas and Empress Blackwell; two sisters, Ruby Warren of Youngstown and Elizabeth Hunter of California; two brothers, Nathan Blackwell of Charlotte, N.C. and Grady Eatmon of Buffalo, N.Y.; and a host of loving family and friends.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Cardenas, and brothers, James Blackwell and Willie Eatmon.

Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 10, 2023, at Nevels Temple C.O.G.I.C., 939 Elm St., Youngstown. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. Officiating minister will be Prelate Bishop David L. Herron. Guests are asked to wear masks.

Ministry of comfort, love and dignity entrusted to the L. E. Black, Phillips and Holden Funeral Home.

(special notice)