Jerry Lee Blackford

Bagley

Jerry Lee Blackford passed away January 6, 2013 at the VA Hospital in Des Moines from an extended fight with cancer. Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, at the Walnut Creek Community Church in Des Moines with burial at the Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.

Jerry Lee Blackford was born February 16, 1944 in Des Moines to Emmo and Olive Blackford. He was the fifth of seven children. He enlisted in the Air Force on February 24, 1961 and served one tour of duty in Vietnam as a paratrooper. On February 23, 1965 he was honorably discharged after a fall from a stationary plane left him in rehabilitation for months. Jerry made his life’s work as a dry wall finisher and was a member of his trade union. He was a member of the Earlham Church of Christ for many years.

In June of 1968 he married Beverly Maine. They resided both in Des Moines and the Earlham area. They raised three daughters, Darcie Jo Blackford, Oceanside, CA; Jeannie Lynn (David) Solorzano and Sherri Lee (Shawn) Lyons. Jerry spent his last years in Bagley to be near his family.

He is survived by his three daughters; six grandchildren, Curtis Swihart, Lisa Swihart, Wilson Solorzano, Brian Solorzano, Matthew Lyons and Marcus Lyons; two great-grandchildren, Sophie and Jacob Carmichael; brothers, Jack (Martha) Blackford, Bob (Rita) Blackford and Tom (Nina) Blackford; a sister, Donna (Frank) Montenguise; along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, John; and a sister, Virginia.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for future designation.