William Cecil Blackman

William was born in 1948 in Raleigh, NC. He graduated from Broughton High School and NC State School of Design. He spent his career as a product designer at Lufkin Rule Company in Apex and is credited on multiple patents for tape measure locks, spooling mechanisms, and cases.

William had a broad base of knowledge and a great curiosity about all things. His interests typically led from doing an activity to the mechanics behind it. In the 60s, square dancing led to calling the dance steps. In the 70s, fishing led to making lures, rods, and jelly worms. In the 80s and 90s, playing golf led to making and repairing golf clubs. In the 2000s, playing guitar led to repairing acoustic and electric guitars.

He had a lifelong love of music. Growing up with a musical extended family, his early instruments included the accordion and clarinet. In high school he played guitar in a band with his neighbors. He particularly liked guitar music: flamenco, classical, and jazz. In recent years he has enjoyed multiple concerts by the NC Symphony, including Joaquin Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez for guitar, Beethoven’s 9th, and a Beatles tribute.

Additionally, William was a keen woodworker, creating furniture, keepsake boxes, and desk items for his home.

William is survived by his daughter Jennifer Blackman. He is predeceased by his wife Barbara Blackman, and his parents William and Elizabeth Blackman.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 3 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Mitchell Funeral Home, at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh. Burial was in Raleigh Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to animal charities in your community.

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