Bill Blackwell was born November 26, 1936 in Pelion, SC to Annie and Stancil Blackwell. A big influence in his life were years living with his Mother at his grandparents’ home and cousins in Red Bank. Later they moved to Gilbert where as a young boy he worked on the local farms and helped the janitor clean the school. His family moved to Columbia where he sold newspapers on the street corner and concessions at the Township Auditorium and as an assistant manager at Shuperts grocery store. After graduation from Olympia High School, he joined the SC Air National Guard and held various jobs.
He was excited when he bought his first boat, which led to a blind date with Mary. This mutual love of being on the water and outdoor sports began a long life together.
Billy spent 3 years in the US Army as a medic stationed at Ft. Sam Houston in Texas. He contracted mono, which prohibited his deployment to Germany.
Bill and Mary had four children: Julie, Wesley, Bill, Jr., and Beverly. Wesley passed away at 5 months old.
Billy was a hard worker spending 20 years at Shealy's Millwork. He and his son, Bill, worked together in vinyl siding and later he owned and operated ABC Driver Training which he had a positive impact on his many students.
Throughout his life, he enjoyed camping, gardening, playing games, spending time at the beach and being with family and friends.
After retirement they spent some time in the Upstate where his garden grew and grew......... He enjoyed sharing the fruits of his labor.
Billy and Mary moved back to the Midlands a few years ago to be near family, where his health began to decline. He passed away at home on April 5th surrounded by family.
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