Alan Wade Blackwater

Alan was a lifelong resident of Blackwater, Arizona, he is survived by his partner of 48 years, Marcella Narcia; his children, David Blackwater Mary Blackwater and Tanya Blackwater; his sisters, Rhea Eddie, Caron Eddie, Joyce Eddie, Laura Eddie, Lynelle Blackwater and Ellen Johns; 14 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Oreen Johns; his brother, David Johns and son, Joshua Blackwater.

Alan’s life was a testament to a deep commitment to service, guided by unwavering ethical principles and a profound belief in Community; he dedicated his life to his Community.

Alan spent over 40 years working for the Gila River Indian Community, most of those years were as the Coordinator of the District One Service Center, where he was known for setting high standards and for putting the people he served first. Under his leadership District One Service Center became the model for other Districts throughout Gila River Indian Community. He was instrumental in the planning and development of District One Sub-Divisions, District Parks, Improvements of Roads and the building of a District One Multi-Purpose Building and District One Senior Center. Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and his passions.

Alan may not have liked being the center of attention, but he deserves to have his long years of fatherly love honored. He was a man of few words but his integrity, kindness, generosity was shared with many of the children in the district through the time he spent coaching basketball, girls softball and t-ball teams, he left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Many of the ball players who are now grown adults still affectionately call him “Papa”.

His hobbies and interests helped define who he was. He enjoyed watching sports and was an avid U of A fan. He often spent his weekends going to his grandchildren’s baseball games. His love for spending time with his family traveling, going out to eat, spending the day under his shed cleaning or building the next addition to his shed or finding space for whatever he purchased at the swap meet. His love for sports was something he shared with his children and grand-children, leaving a mark on us that will never fade.

In addition to his family, Alan found great fellowship and purpose within Alcoholics Anonymous, for over 40 years, where he hosted campfire meetings and gatherings, embodying the principle of service.

We find comfort in knowing that Papa's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.

Wake Services will be held at the District One Service Center on Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 5:00pm to 10:00pm. Alan will be taken home immediately following services.

Funeral Service will be held at the Blackwater Presbyterian Church on Monday, January 19, 2026 at 8:00am. Interment will be at the North Blackwater Cemetery. Feeding to follow at the District One Multi-Purpose Building.