Bill L. Blackburn, 77, of State Road, NC passed away March 15, 2022 at Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston Salem.

Bill was born in Elkin on  August 1, 1944 to Raymond and Irene Miles Blackburn.  He graduated from Elkin High School class of 1962 and attended Gardner-Webb College.

Bill was a great lover of the outdoors. An avid angler, he spent many hours fishing the waters of North Carolina, Maine and Montana. He loved his birds and kept his feeders, many handmade, always full. Bill was a lifelong craftsman of wood and carpentry. He loved to make gifts for his children, grandchildren and friends.

Bill had an exceptional knowledge of mechanics. He owned and operated B & D Auto Parts from 1965-2001. Then he spent 12 years as a realtor.

A faithful member of Elkin Valley Baptist Church, he held many leadership roles through the years. Bill was a member of the Elkin Sertoma Club and served as Chair of the Elkin-Jonesville Chamber of Commerce

Bill possessed a gentleness and warmth that was treasured by all who knew him. He was a loving, doting grandfather to all his grandchildren and grand dogs.

He will be sorely missed by his State Road Hardware family with whom he visited every weekday.

Bill had a kind and generous spirit that was apparent in every walk of his life.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sandra Collins Blackburn, one daughter Lori Gwyn (Will), one son Barry Blackburn (Mary). Eight Grandchildren Andrew Cahill, Erin Cahill, Vincent Cahill,  Jay Blackburn (Kathryn), Carolyn Blackburn, Richard Gwyn (Christine), Sarah Gwyn Snow (Hayden) and Alice Gwyn.

A graveside service was held on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at Hollywood Cemetery in Elkin.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday April 16, 2022 at Cedarbrook Country Club from 3:00 until 6:00 P.M. .

The family suggests that any memorials be directed to The Ark ; 130 Hill St. Elkin, NC 28621

Online condolences may be made at www.jkennedyfsl.com .

John Kennedy funeral director is assisting the Blackburn family with arrangements.

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