William Blackwell

William Junior Blackwell, of New Hope Road, Bluefield, WV, died Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at his home. Born July 8,1951 in Bluefield WV, he graduated from Montcalm High School and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served in Vietnam, with the rank of sergeant. He worked for Mine Safety Appliances for 23 years and was the owner of RNB Industries, until his retirement. He was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Princeton Moose Lodge, Mercer Co. Historical Society and attended Princeton Vet Center. Survivors include his wife Elaine Hall-Blackwell, one daughter Kimberly Blackwell of Washington State, two brothers, James Blackwell and wife Sharon of Montcalm and Byron Blackwell of Tucson, AZ, Nephews Ben Blackwell and Michael Blackwell, Brandon Hall, Zackary and Kaydan Shorter, step children Tony Nelson of Nashville, TN and Amy Strother of Fayetteville, NC. He was a proud American and fought the battles so others could be free. He always said "You don't know what freedom is until it is taken away. Be proud of America and love it as much as I have." He was a member of Salvation Through Christ. Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, September 19, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Cravens-Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell with Pastor Roger Lusk officiating. Burial will be at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Bluewell with Wallace Simpson, Larry Sigmon, Dwight Scott, Gilbert Mitchem, David Graves, Joe Sabo and Bill Clark will serve as pallbearers. Military honors will be performed by the Mercer County veterans Honor Guard. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 6-8PM at the funeral home. “A special thank you to Wally son and his wife Helen for all they have done for me and Elaine. Thank you to friends and family though these trying times. God Bless America.” In lieu of flowers, make a donation to: Amedisys Hospice, 3879 Maples Acres Rd., Bluefield, WV 24701. Online condolences will be accepted at www.cravens-shires.com