James Blackman

Wednesday, November 28, 2007
James Blackman

James H. Blackman, 55, of Mountain Home, died Saturday, Nov. 24, 2007, at home, with his family by his side.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 28, at the American Legion Hall, 515 E. 2nd South St., in Mountain Home. Cremation was under the direction of Rost Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel.

James was born on Oct. 21, 1952, in Valdosta, Ga., to James and Maria Blackman. He was raised and educated in Washington, graduating from Pasco High School. After his graduation, he joined the US Air Force.

James earned an associate's degree plus numerous welding certificates while serving with the US Air Force. He became a civil service welder at Mountain Home Air Force Base for 29½ years. During that same time he became the union president for 15 years and then vice president for five years.

James enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time with his family. The main highlight of his life was the birth of and life with his son, David, his family said.

James is survived by: his son, David Blackman of Mountain Home; his "like a daughter," RobunLee and her husband, Jacob Hilliard, of Mountain Home; his sister, Toby Feckner of California; his brother, Charles Blackman of Mountain Home; his brother, Ambrose "Ed" Blackman of Kentucky; his brother, Ralph Blackman of Washington; his sister, Rose Spadoni of Washington; his brother, Andrew Blackman of Tennessee; his sister, Patricia Salisbury of Washington, five nieces, seven nephews and numerous cousins.

His mother and father preceded him in death.