Celestial Pearl Blackwell of Ina, IL went to be with the Lord and loved ones gone on before her on Sunday, July 7, 2019 surrounded by her family who loved and respected her so much.

Pearl was born to Roy and Ora Reed on October 27, 1922 in Akin, IL and grew up in Macedonia, IL. She married William Marlin Blackwell on March 5, 1938. He preceded her in death shortly after their 60th Anniversary on October 13, 1998. They were members of the Ina Free Will Baptist Church in Ina.

She wll be greatly missed by her 5 children, Barbara Joan Duncan and huband Carlyn of Dix, IL., William Lloyd Blackwell of Ina, IL., Phyllis Ann Lewis and husband Tim of Ina, IL., Marsha Lynn McKinney and husband Ron of Ina, IL., Susan Denise Kniffen and husband Bill of Ina, IL. Twelve grandchildren, Lincoln Duncan of Dix, IL., Skylynn Blackwell of Mt. Vernon, IL., Kim Duncanof Dix., Terry Lewis of Ina, IL., Rachael Lyday of Ina, IL., Whitman Duncan of Dix, IL., Amy Diggs of Carterville, IL., Michael Kniffen of Ina, IL., Brian Lewis of Sesser, IL., Starlynn Edwards of Ina, IL., Michelle Featherstun of Mt. Vernon, IL., Daniel Kniffen of Mt. Vernon, IL.  28 Great-Grandchildren and many Great-Great-Grandchildren.

Mrs. Blackwell was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, 1 Granddaughter-Kelly Michael Lewis and a Daughter-in-law-Carollyn Blackwell.

While she was a Farmer’s wife and Homemaker for many years, she later worked in the Sesser Dress Factory where she retired. What will be remembered most about Pearl is the content of her character. If there ever was a Proverbs 31 woman, she was it. Her quiet, simple wisdom was often a source of comfort to much of her family during their “Storms of Life”. Not to mention there was always homemade pie or cake in the kitchen. She loved music and played a little piano and guitar. Self taught. Her genuineness and sincere love not only for her family but for Jesus was evident to all who met her. His light shined through her for all to see.

Visitation will be held at the Johnston Funeral Home in Ina on Thursday, July 11th from 11:00 A.M. to 1:30 P.M. Service at 1:30 P.M. with burial at New Hope Cemetery after the service.

Michael Kniffen, Grandson, to officiate the service.

For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.johnstonfuneralhome.com