Diana Blackman

Diana E. Blackman, 59, passed away peacefully at her home in Snellville Georgia, surrounded by her family holding her hands on Thursday, July 11, 2019; after an extended battle with cancer. She was born on March 29, 1960 on the island of Barbados to Parents Oliver Grant and Marlene Grant. She later migrated to New York where she lived for 39 years, attended New Utrecht High School in Brooklyn NY, and was a promising track star.

On August 15, 1981 she married the love of her life, Michael Blackman. They began their family with their first child Joey Blackman. They would have three other children soon after Randy, Renee, and Cassandra Blackman and adopted daughter Tiffany. Michael and Diana shared 38 years of marital bliss.

Diana was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She was a homemaker who gave her all, giving selflessly to ensure her family lacked nothing. She especially loved her role as grandma. We can still hear her telling them “I’m gonna give you a good lash”. She had a vivacious personality and always made people around her laugh.

Diana truly loved working with children, therefore she received her certification in early childhood education. In 1996 she opened a daycare in her home, which was near and dear to her heart.

For many years Diana was active in service to God and her church, it suited her giving heart. She loved to sing, and was often called upon to sing sermonic solos. She was the Children’s Choir Director, her gifts were mostly displayed during the holidays and church events as she coordinated the children’s programs. Diana also accomplished finishing Bible School earning her diploma in Evangelism and Bible knowledge 1 and 2.

Diana was a beautiful soul who would light up a room with her warm and bright smile. Her nurturing spirit caused those in need to be drawn to her for comfort, prayer, words of encouragement, and Godly counsel; she would even open her home showering them with love and kindness.

Diana relocated to Georgia where she began a new life which she loved. It was the life she always dreamed of with her husband. Here, they continued building their legacy which will stand for generations.

Diana is survived by her husband Michael Blackman, four children Joey, Randy, Renee, and Cassandra, and adopted daughter Tiffany. Eight grandchildren, Mikhayah,Tyree, Makhayla, Nathalia, Joey Jr., Ethan, Madison, and London. Two daughter in laws Jirzia, and Tamika, and son in law Nelvern. Her parents. Two brothers Grantley and Samuel. Six sisters, Coreen, (Twin) Jennifer, Junia, Esther, Sherma, Rosline, and her sister Margo who preceded her in death in 2015. She also leaves behind Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews, and a host of friends, and loved ones.

Diana will always and forever be in our hearts, her life was a true testament and example of the love of Christ. We are eternally grateful to God for choosing us to be a part of this Angels’ life.