ROCKY MOUNT – Douglas MacArthur Blackwell, age 69, passed away Friday, October 14, 2011. He was born May 7, 1942 in Rutherford County, son of the late August and Velvie Blackwell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-mother, Tempie Blackwell; sisters, Dorothy Cissell and Marilyn Bradshaw; brothers, Edmund and Mercus Blackwell; half-sisters Blanche Boyles and Laverne Hensley; and half-brother, Marcus Blackwell.

He is survived by his wife Judith Howell Blackwell; daughters, Velvet B. Everette and Robin R. Blackwell; grandson, Matthew L. Everette; brothers, Tommy and Kenneth Blackwell; sister, Devern Upton; and many brothers and sisters in law, nieces and nephews, neighbors and friends.

A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. Monday, October 17, 2011 at Wheeler Woodlief Funeral Home with Douglas’ nephew, Rev. Gary Garner officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Toys for Tots.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home, Rocky Mount.