John Drew Blackburn Sr., 83, a resident of Hendricks, passed from this life Saturday, August 30, 2014 at home. He had been in declining health, but death was unexpected. John was born Monday, October 6, 1930 in Bayard, a son of the late John Paige Blackburn and Isabel Linger Reed Blackburn. Left to cherish John’s memory are four children, Marcia Jean Blackburn of Morgantown, Patricia Blackburn Farmer and husband John of NC, J.D. Blackburn Jr. and wife Janice of Beverly and Dana Louise Blackburn of FL, one grandson, J.D. Blackburn and wife Liz of Beverly, two great grandchildren, Lydia and Jace Blackburn, his dear friend Barbara McClain and his loving pet Montana Preceding John in death besides his parents was one sister, JoAnne Blackburn VonLangen. John attended the schools of Tucker County and was a graduate of Parsons High School Class of 1948. He then went on to graduate from the WVU School of Pharmacy in 1955. John co-owned and operated the Family Drug Store in Elkins from 1959 to 1990. From 1990 to 1999, he worked as a relief pharmacist at various businesses in the area until he retired. John was a member of several organizations. For over fifty years he was a member of the Pythagoras Lodge # 128 in Parsons and was a lifetime member of the Elks Club, Elkins Lodge #1135. John was also a member of the Tygarts Valley Shrine Club and Shriners International, Osiris Temple of Wheeling and a member of the Knights Templar of Elkins. John’s request for cremation was honored. A graveside memorial service will be held Sunday, October 12, 2014 at 2:00P in Parsons City Cemetery. The family suggests that memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to the Tucker County Animal Shelter 586 Brooklyn Heights Parsons, WV 26287.
