J R Blackwell, loving husband, father, and grandfather went home to be with his Heavenly Father on October 12, 2019.
Memorial services will be at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, October 19, 2019, at Coulter Road Baptist Church with Bob Miller officiating. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, Amarillo.
JR was born on August 8th, 1941, to Roy and Mittie Belle (Voss) Blackwell in Dalhart, TX. He was raised on a cattle ranch 22 miles West of Channing, TX. JR started his career at TxDOT in 1959 in Channing and moved to Hereford in 1973 as the maintenance supervisor for Deaf Smith County. He moved to Amarillo in 1988 when he was promoted to District Maintenance Superintendent, which he held until retirement in 1993. His passion for golf turned into a second career at Comanche Trail Golf Course in 1998 where he wore many hats. He always said “it was the best job in town” being able to do what he loved and making so many friends along the way.
He was a member of the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years, as well as a member of Coulter Road Baptist Church for 25 years.
JR loved to travel, play golf, cook outside (grilling, smoking, or cooking in his father’s old cast iron cookware), but most importantly he loved his family. He was happiest when his family was together and he was cooking something while wearing one of his famous giant cowboy hats.
He was preceded in death by his father, Roy; mother, Mittie Belle; son, Terry Blackwell; sister, Emma Threet; and brother Billy Blackwell.
He is survived by his wife, of 29 years, Sheri Lang; daughter-in-law, Janie Blackwell; granddaughter, Jalee; son, Tyler Lang and wife Kendayl; and granddaughter, Harper.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Gracie’s Project Animal Rescue in Amarillo.
I am very sorry for the loss of such a nice and caring man. His TxDOT and golfing stories will be fondly remembered. Mike
Was one of my favorites with TXDOT> Always helped me control Bob. My condolences to Sheri and family. RIP in Jr.
We were sorry to hear about J.R. He had an infectious smile and was always fun to be with. Very kind and considerate and he will be missed by all.
Never got tired of hearing “ hey Hoss” or my favorite “ hey Hawkshaw!” He was the sweetest guy in the world. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. He will remain in our hearts forever.
JR was always the first to give his great big hugs at family gatherings. You could tell he loved his family. He always welcomed new people into our family and he was loved by everyone. JR will surely be missed big time!
A long time friend. We grew up together in Channing. I have many fond memories of the times we spent together. I know he will missed by many.
So sorry to hear of JR’s passing. He will be missed by so many people including our TXDOT family. Condolences to Sheri and Tyler and family.
Love, Chris and Tracy Tellman
Was first introduced to JR around 1987. Muleshoe CC 2 man golf tournament! He talked more than he played 😀!! Rip my brother from another mother!!!
Thoughts and Prayers to the family!
Pam and JD
loved the guy … never knew a stranger he will be missed by us all
RIP Hoss
Met J R at a volleyball tourney in Channing we were playing in the early 70’s….I worked for Deaf Smith County so when J R move to Hereford to work for DOT we got to be friends again with our work and playing volleyball …Always enjoyed visiting with J R about our work projects….1974 snow /blizzard made for good conversation…I know his family will miss him very much….I am glad to have know him…Bill and Wanda Page
A great friend. You made more people laugh than a trainload of comedians!
Rest In Peace!
Lou