Donald Blackwood

Donald Harrison Blackwood, 83, of Water Valley, MS, departed this life on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, MS. He was born on March 8th, 1941, in Paris, TN, to the late Bonnie and Frances Blackwood. Donald was the proud father of three children: Bonnie, Wess, and Johnny. A distinguished member of the Class of 1960, he married Debbie Blackwood on August 1st, 2003.

In his early career, he worked in Chicago for a year and spent six months in St. Louis before dedicating twenty-two years to Howell Oil Co. There, he served as a Transport Driver and later became the Manager and Vice President for Blackwood & Howell, committing 41 years to the company. Donald also held the position of Manager for Haypatch Hunting Club, served as Governor #221 for the MS Jaycee Organization, and was a deacon at the First Presbyterian Church. His affiliations included the National L.P. Gas Association, Gulf Gas, and Denton Warren Petroleum Corporation. Additionally, he was an active member of First Faith Baptist Church, where he served as chairman and greeter.

Donald cherished activities such as hunting, fishing, working in his yard, and spending time with his dogs. He had a fondness for red roses, the color black, and country music, with "In the Garden" being his favorite song. He enjoyed watching old westerns, police shows, and Family Feud.

He is survived by his wife Debbie Blackwood; his children Bonnie B. Hill and Johnny Blackwood; three grandchildren Peyton Hill, Catherine Hill, and Ronnie Blackwood; one great-grandson Ryan Blackwood; two step-children Candace Harris and Tony Eder; four step-grandchildren Nixon Eder, Atlas Eder, Madyson Harris, and Noah Harris.

Donald is preceded in death by his father Bonnie Harrison Blackwood; mother Frances Atchison Blackwood; and one son Wess Blackwood.

Visitation is planned for 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm, Monday, February 10, 2025, at Seven Oaks Funeral Home. The Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, February 10, 2025, at Seven Oaks Funeral Home with the burial following at Oak Hill Cemetery, Bro. Mark Glidewell and Bro. Terry Floyd officiating.