Mary Blackwell

Mary Turner Blackwell spread her wings to Heaven November 21, 2024 with family by her side at St. Luke's Hospital. Born April 22, 1934, she was 90 years old.

An always independent, strong, active and resourceful Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, her love of family was first and foremost.

Mary was raised in Green Creek, NC. She would spend her entire life in service to her community. Either in her career with the Polk County Sheltered Workshop or in her private time. People knew they could turn to Mary for help. She was grounded in her faith & she loved her family church, Mill Creek Church of the Brethren. She taught Sunday School for many years and later would care for countless babies and toddlers in the nursery.

There wasn't a soul she met that remained a stranger. Her wry humor and love of laughter endured people to her.

A diehard Tarheel fan, she loved sports, romance novels, gardening, tending to her flowers and a good Southern Living recipe. She had an adventurous spirit and getting lost along the way made her travels all the better. Discovering new places was a passion, but nothing made her happier than children. Her Grands and Great grands filled her life with so much happiness. She raised us all.

She is preceded in death by her Mother, Erselle Horne Turner, and her husband Dean Blackwell.

She is survived by her daughters Emily Skipper ( Mark ) and Susie Kimbrell. Her Grandchildren, Stephanie Skipper Koenig ( Billy), Jamie Kimbrell, and Lauren Spears ( Caleb ). Her Great Grandchildren Pearl Koenig, Aden Kimbrell, Josiah & Joshua Spears.

On November 30, 2024 at Petty's Funeral Home the family will receive friends at 1:00 followed by a funeral service at 2:00 conducted by Pastor Noel Naff.

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