Robert Bernard Blackman

Robert Bernard Blackman, the oldest of nine children born to Almeta and Bernard Blackman, was born October 12, 1929 in Sampson County.  He truly loved his four brothers, Donald, Doug, Charlie, and Sandy Blackman, and four sisters, Julia Thornton, Sarah Raynor, Janice Keen and Pearlie Dunn.

On February 5, 1949 Robert took his bride, Estelle Parker, to establish their home and farm in Sampson County.  During their 56 years of marriage, they were blessed with four children, Powell and Philip Blackman, Denise Sorrell and Karen Blackman; four grandchildren, Phil Blackman, Summer Jordan, Colby and Sterling Sorrell; and now four great-grandchildren, Colt, Nina, Peyton and Eli Jordan. 

During his 87 years, his hard work produced bumper crops and countless turkeys, but more importantly his dedication earned the respect of all who knew him exemplifying Titus 2:7-8a “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned”

On Saturday, September 9th, Robert went home to continue his work in heaven leaving behind his two children - Philip Blackman and Denise Sorrell, four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, sister – Janice Keen, and three brothers – Donald, Doug and Charlie Blackman.

The family would be honored to receive visitors on Tuesday evening, September 12th, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, at West and Dunn Funeral Home in Newton Grove.  The celebration of his life will be Wednesday, September 13th, at 2:00 pm at Maple Grove United Methodist Church.  Burial will follow at the Blackman Family Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to Maple Grove United Methodist Church or the Newton Grove Rescue.

Services have been entrusted to West & Dunn Funeral Home of Newton Grove.