Edward N. Blackwell

Edward N. Blackwell, 91, of Winter Park, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 23. Edward was born on March 19, 1919, in Jasper, AL, to Sarah Charlotte (Lottie) and James Monroe Blackwell. He was a retired factory distribution manager for the Cadillac Division of General Motors Corporation. Edward was a tech sergeant during WWII and fought in North Africa and Italy as part of the 337th Infantry Regiment, 85th Division, Fifth Army. He was awarded several medals for valor, including two bronze stars, and was the first known soldier to have entered Rome during that city's liberation. A beloved father and grandfather, he was predeceased in 1993 by his wife of 43 years, Gladys, and is survived by his daughter, Christine Blackwell of Winter Park; his son and daughter-in-law, Norm and Laurie Blackwell of Rochester Hills, MI; his grandson Ryan Blackwell of Rochester Hills, MI; his granddaughter, Heather Blackwell of Lexington, KY; his sister Rachel Randolph of Jasper, AL; and many cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. He was a Christian and attended All Saints Episcopal Church. A memorial service will be held at the Carey Hand Cox-Parker Funeral Home, 1350 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, on Saturday, February 26 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Hospice of the Comforter, 480 W. Central Parkway, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714. Arrangements under the direction of Carey Hand Cox-Parker Funeral Home, Winter Park, FL.