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1935-2026
SALEM -- Billy C. Blackburn, 91, of Salem, died Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 at Blossom Skilled Nursing in Salem.
Billy was born on Feb. 27, 1935, in Pikeville, Kentucky, the son of the late George Pete and Nora Justice Blackburn. For 45 years, Billy worked as an enameller at Eljers, where he was respected for his dedication and long years of service. Following his retirement, he continued to stay active by working part time for Lyle Printing for 18 years. His strong work ethic and commitment to doing a job well earned him the respect of coworkers and friends alike. He especially enjoyed working with wood, and he took great pride in being a true "Mr. Fix-It." Billy was a member of the former Salem Friends Church. In his leisure time, he enjoyed fishing at Lake Erie, hunting, and camping. These simple pleasures brought him joy and reflected the deep appreciation he had for the outdoors and time spent with those he loved. Whether he was casting a line, spending time in the woods, or working with his hands, or taking care of his garden Billy found contentment in honest labor and the beauty of everyday life.
On Oct. 1, 1955, Billy married the love of his life, Rose Mae Blackburn, who preceded him in death on May 30, 2019. He is survived by his children, Billy Blackburn and his wife Melissa of Salem, Sandy Colian of Salem (late of husband Gary Colian), George Blackburn and his wife Kay of Falkville, Alabama, and Ronald Blackburn of Salem. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy. In addition, he is survived by his sister, Rosa Lee Blackburn Hite of Salem; his brother, Leon Blackburn of Dearborn, Michigan; and numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory. Along with his parents and wife, Billy was preceded in death by his sons, Donald Blackburn and Andrew Blackburn. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Hilda Ousley, Gracy Avonell Blackburn Hite, Marietta Blackburn Cannatella, George Blackburn Jr., Orville Blackburn, James Harvey Blackburn, Archel Blackburn, and Ronnie Blackburn.
A funeral service will be held Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Stark Memorial, with Pastor Jan Winnale officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Park. A luncheon will follow at Salam VFW. Friends and family will be received Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.
To view Billy's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.
10/20/26