Mr. Otis Richard Blackwell

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Sunday at Collier-Butler Funeral Home for Otis Richard Blackwell, 83, Gadsden, who died Thursday, February 24, 2011. The Rev. Tim Hassler will officiate with burial at Fairview Baptist Church Cemetery.

Mr. Blackwell was a member of Fairview Baptist Church for most of his life. He was a life-long resident of the Lookout Mountain Community.

He graduated from Etowah High School and played on the 1947 State Championship football team. He served in the United State Army in the Korean Conflict. Mr. Blackwell worked at Republic steel in several departments and retired as a supervisor. He was a Master Mason.

Richard married Wildred Carter in 1961. They would have been married 50 years on July 17, 2011. He was a loving, devoted father and grandfather. His family depended on his strength, advice, and judgment.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Otis Oliver and Burma Etoyle Copeland Blackwell.

Richard Blackwell is survived by his wife, Wildred Blackwell; daughters, Sabara (Roger) Quinn, Spartanburg, SC, Sheral (John) Serafini, Southside, AL; granddaughter, Anna Marie Quinn, Spartanburg, SC; sisters, Stella (Jim) Stivender, Gadsden, AL, Jean (James) Chambers, Gadsden, AL; nieces, Debbie Woodall, Decatur, AL, Terri (Ben) Garrett, Dothan, AL; nephews, Alan (Melanie) Luker, Waco, TX, Wally (Molly) Walker, Montgomery, AL.

Pallbearers will be Wally Walker, Montgomery; Steve Copeland, Atlanta; Jerry Johnson, Clayton Whitworth, John Mayo, James Mayo, Mark Mayo, and Brian Freeman, Gadsden.

Richard Blackwell lived his life observing the commandments of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a gentleman who set examples for his family in many different ways. He was peaceful, loving, caring, and helped those in need.

Richard’s love for his wife was unquestioned and unwavering during good times and bad. He loved and lifted up his two daughters and sought only the best for them. They both loved him dearly and relied on his family leadership. Words simply can’t describe his unconditional love for his family; but especially for his granddaughter, Anna. They had a special bond from the very beginning, enjoying each other’s company for nearly sixteen years. Richard became known as Papa after Anna’s birth. Anna accompanied Papa on many camping trips and fishing excursions. She also enjoyed his early morning breakfasts made just for her. Papa was such a good cook. We will all miss his cooking. Anna will remember her Papa as a kind, loving, and tender man that loved her regardless of what she did. Anna lover her Papa and Papa loved his “Miss Anna”.

The family will be accepting flowers or donations may be made to Fairview Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 to the hour of service on Sunday.