Robert Lee Blackwell Sr.

January 26, 1926 - July 7, 2011

Born in Altavista, Virginia. He was the youngest child of Charles McClayton and Ivie Alpine Blackwell. He was predeceased by four sisters and two brothers.

The Blackwell Family relocated to Merrifield, Virginia after the Depression. Charles McClayton passed away soon after that when Robert was 14. Robert attended Fairfax High School, where he met his wife-to-be Velva Jean Wakefield. They were married in 1944 and made Annandale their home. During World War II he served in the Merchant Marines in Trinidad. Robert retired from Acme Supermarkets after 40 years. He manager their meat department for many years. Jean passed away in 2004.

Robert delighted in telling stories about his childhood and growing up near the Lane Cedar Chest Company where his father found work hauling sand. They, also, owned a General Store, farmed produce and at one time owned a dance hall and bowling alley. His much older half brother, Arthur, served in the Philippines in the Calvary during World War I.

Robert is survived by a son Robert, Jr. and his wife Diane of Clifton, Virginia. They have two daughters; Kathryn of Alexandria, Virginia and Rachel who lives in Florida. His daughter Brenda Kaputa and her husband Mike of Southwick, Massachussetts. They have two sons; Michael and wife Suzanne live in Washington State. Brian and his wife Beth live in New Hampshire. They are the parents of Robert's Great-Grandchildren Robert, Emily and Andrew.

Arrangements under the direction of National Funeral Home, Falls Church, VA.