Willard Ray Blackwood, Jr, 78, passed away August 14, 2023 at Hospice Wendover. Born in Cleveland County on April 6, 1945, he was the son of the late Willard Ray Blackwood, Sr. and Leona Mae Jolley Blackwood. Ray retired as a Sales Manager for Dixie Reel and Box/Lone Star Container out of Irving, Texas.

Ray was preceded in death by son, Jonathan Cort Blackwood

He is survived by his cherished wife of 53 years, Rhonda Gamble Blackwood, son Adam Tyler Blackwood of Shelby, brother Gary Blackwood and wife Donna of Shelby, sister Kay Blackwood and husband Dale Wellmon of Boulder, CO and beloved nephews and nieces.

A graveside service with military honors will be held 10:30 AM Friday August 18, 2023 at Sunset Cemetery in Shelby. The family will receive friends following the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Shelby Presbyterian Church to the Patricia B Harris Youth Scholarship Fund or to Wendover Hospice in Shelby.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.