Marvin Donald Blackburn

Don went HOME to be with the Lord passing quickly from a heart attack on May 30, 2018. This was the day before his 57th wedding anniversary. His last message was delivered at Grace Fellowship on Easter. The message was “The Way of the Cross Leads Home”. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. “A preacher at heart” describes Don. He was a godly man who loved to preach and he lived what he preached.

“Humble Beginnings” would best describe life in Sayre, OK where he was born in 1939. He went to school in Berlin, OK where he remembers using quill pens. Of course, they had an out- house, a real ice box with the block of ice for cooling, and outdoor fun where kids were free to run and play. Part of their fun was pushing a Model T Ford out in the pasture. His dad was away serving in the Army under Gen. George Patton in WWII.

“California here I come…” is what many in Oklahoma said and Don’s family was no exception. They moved to the projects in Long Beach, CA when he was seven. He was saved at a Bible Club when He was eight. He was ever thankful for the ladies who took time to tell him about Jesus. Don remembered and shared stories about riding the rails, being a cowboy, throwing newspapers, mowing lawns, and farming all day. He lived to be 78 so had a lot to remember!

It was during his freshman year at Bob Jones University that he rededicated his life to the Lord. He met Linda in a mission trip during Christmas break. After his freshman year he enlisted and became and Army cryptographer. He served in Japan for two years and then returned to Bob Jones to finish his degree, court Linda under the dogwood trees, and get married. In college he taught Judo and started a gospel Judo team. The team traveled each weekend to demonstrate Judo and share their testimonies. Being a teacher and preacher allowed the family to minister in South Carolina, Michigan, Colorado, Wyoming, Oregon, and California. He was Linda’s favorite preacher.

Don was a protector and loving provider for his family – wife Linda, son Fred, daughter Kay Lynn and six grandchildren (Jordan, Lauren, Joshua, Logan, Lakein, and Freedom). His practical and frugal living style allowed the family to live comfortably and still share with others in need. His sole desire was to please God. Don and Linda proudly served God together in ministry. They rejoiced at how God blessed them with Fred and Kay Lynn. Don’s chronic infection these last seven years never weakened his spirit. He never questioned or blamed the Lord. He just loved Him and obeyed. Surely goodness and mercy followed Him all his days of his life and he will dwell in God’s court forever and praise His holy name.