John Luther Blackwell

October 13, 1946 - June 01, 2025

John Luther Blackwell, 78, of Check, VA, went to be with the Lord on Sunday June 1, 2025, John was a man who never met a stranger. He loved to talk; it was common to see his truck setting parked somewhere along Sunny Ridge as he was chatting with a neighbor. He was always quick to give a helping hand to anyone in need and to share his vast knowledge and skill. He graduated from Nashville Auto / Diesel college in 1966. He became an independent welder working on bridges throughout the state. He was also a fifth-generation dairy farmer. John served for many years on the Floyd Co. Farm Bureau Board. He was preceded in death by his parents: Luther Ramon and Arlene Williams Blackwell; older sister: Mildred Blackwell. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years: Betty Roberts Blackwell; their two daughters: Carol Blackwell and Dianna Blackwell Hale; son-in-law: Paul R. Hale Jr, all of Check; six grandchildren: Alexandra Turpin (Austin), Rachel Elkins (Cameron), Jared Custer (Brylie), Paul Ray “Trey” Hale III (Scarlett), Emma Gallimore (Ben), Caroline Hale; nine great-grandchildren: Madison Worrell, Harper Worrell, Kennedy Turpin, Sawyer Elkins, Waylon Custer, Rhett Turpin, Wesley Custer, Atlee Elkins, and Warren Custer; beloved sister: Linda Barlow; sister-in-law: Patricia Palmer (Dave); cousin he considered his brother: Donald McLane Whitlock (Priscilla); dearest friend and neighbor: Robert “Bob” Dietz; a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Funeral Services will be Friday June 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Gardner Funeral Home with Pastor Dan Whitlock officiating. Interment will follow in Blackwell Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday from 1 to 2 PM before the service. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Agriculture in the Classroom or the Ronald McDonald House. 

Sending our deepest condolences .May God comfort you all during this time.

Thoughts and prayers to all the family. Big hugs Carol Jean.

John was a friend and a classmate. Sending heartfelt sympathy to all the family and friends.

To the family of John Blackwell , I work at the school with Mrs. Diane Hale ; wonderful daughter, person, and friend! I’m sending my deepest condolences to the family and all of your loved ones for the loss of Mr. Blackwell. May you all find comfort in peace in all the friends prayers ,cards, and especially the grace of our Heavenly Father. I’m deeply sorry to hear of your families loss. I will keep each and everyone in my thoughts and my prayers during this very difficult time.! Prayers be with you Terry McGinnis

I am sorry for your loss. He was a good friend and neighbor growing up. I am going to miss him. Rest In Peace old buddy!

John was a man I highly respected and enjoyed having chats with. He will always hold a special place in my memory. I treasure getting to know him and being a part of his life. Paul