George Ralph Blackwell Jr.

George R. Blackwell, Jr., age 78, was promoted to Heaven on September 25, 2016. He was preceded in death by his father, George R. Blackwell, Sr., mother, Isabel Jessie Blackwell, stepmother, Mae Blackwell, son, Garrett Blackwell, and brothers, Robert Jansen and Jimmy Everett. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Rosemary Blackwell; sons, Eric Blackwell (Judy), Kyle Blackwell (Angela), Tommy Rady, and Mitch Rady; brother, Richard Crosby (Betty); sister-in-law, Patty Everett; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and many nephews, nieces and firefighter friends. He grew up in Jacksonville and graduated from Fletcher High School. George retired from the Air National Guard and the Jacksonville Fire Department.

A family gathering will be held at 12:30pm on Wednesday, September 28 at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel with a graveside service to follow. A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, September 28 with a Celebration of Life after the service in the Parrish Hall at Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 7500 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dreams Come True, 6803 Southpoint Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32216 or Episcopal Church of the Redeemer Food Pantry.

Arrangements under the direction of Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel, 4801 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL.