Lester Blackwell

CHARLESTON Lester (Steve) Blackwell, 89, passed away Monday, July 8, 2013, in a local hospital.She was of the Methodist faith. Mrs. Blackwell was a graduate of Bradley Central High School, class of 1942. She was employed as operator with Western Union for several years.She was born Feb. 14, 1924, in Hackleburg, Ala., to the late John A. Vance and Leona Hudson Vance. Also preceding her in death was her husband, Sam W. Blackwell; sisters, Celeste Vance, Tressie L. Cantrell, Madge Grubb, Maize Thompson and Inez Albritton. Survivors include her sons, Philip Blackwell, of Charleston and Walter Blackwell, of Hixson; daughter-in-law, Deborah Blackwell; granddaughter, Jennifer Goza (Bud), of Cleveland; great-grandchildren: Sarah Goza and Jacob Goza; niece, Janet Pevahouse; nephews, Jerry Cantrell and Bill Cantrell; brother-in-law, James Blackwell; sister-in-law, Carolyn Garrett and special friend, Bessie Brewer.Graveside services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, 2013, at Hilcrest Memorial Gardens. A white dove release ceremony will conclude the service.Her family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. today at Fike Funeral Home.We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Blackwell family guestbook at www.fikefh.com.