Elizabeth Rachel Blackwell

Elizabeth Rachel Blackwell was born on Monday, August 2, 1920, in Franconia, VA. She was the seventh of eight children born to the late Reverend James Walter Baker, Sr. and Elizabeth Lomax-Baker. Elizabeth peacefully went to glory on Sunday, May 23, 2021.

Elizabeth accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age at the Laurel Grove Baptist Church in Franconia, VA. She attended the Laurel Grove School and was part of the first generation born into freedom in Franconia. Elizabeth was given an award in 2005 as one of the oldest living students who attended the Laurel Grove School’s historic celebration. She later moved to Washington, DC, and attended Harrison Elementary School and Francis Junior High where she was a member of the Francis Junior High School Varsity Girls Basketball team.

After she graduated, Elizabeth worked as a government employee at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing annex of the Treasury Department for many years.

On June 28, 1947, Elizabeth was united in marriage to the late Willie A. Blackwell, and from this wonderful union two daughters were born. They shared 50 wonderful years of marriage before he passed away on Christmas night in 1997.

Elizabeth was a longstanding member and servant in many ministry capacities, including as a deaconess and choir member at the Laurel Grove Baptist Church in Franconia, VA, where she was consistently awarded for her faithful dedication of service. The half is not told of all the other awards and congrats Elizabeth received!

As Elizabeth and her husband began to get up in years, they could no longer attend the Laurel Grove Baptist Church, and started attending Brightwood Park United Methodist Church a block away from their home. It was there that Elizabeth joined the United Methodist Women’s Ministry where she served for many years before moving to Maryland with her daughters. She resided with them until her passing, after living for over 100 years.

Elizabeth was known by her beautiful smile, words of wisdom, and her quiet spirit.

Everyone loved her!

Elizabeth leaves to cherish her memory two daughters, Elvira Blackwell-Northand Willa Blackwell; one granddaughter, LaShaun North-Kelly (Cleveland); six great-grands, Lorenzo, Antwon, Tre’von, Destinee, Tevin, and Tyrrell; three great-great-grands, Skye Diamond, LaKiyah, and Chyna; as well as nieces, nephews, spiritual daughters, and a host of friends.

Elizabeth Rachel Blackwell will surely be missed.