Elsie L. Blackwell
December 14, 1919 - June 5, 2011
Elsie L. Blackwell, 91, graduated to Eternal Glory June 5, at Meadowbrooke Rehab Center, surrounded by her beloved family. Elsie was a lifelong resident of Anderson, born to George M. Martin and Ada M. (Hardacre) Martin of Anderson. She graduated second in her class at Anderson High School and received 3 honors awards. Elsie married Hugh E. Blackwell of Lafayette, Indiana on December 11, 1938, and they enjoyed 71 years of marriage.
She was very active in Park Place Church of God, having been a member her entire life. She taught kindergarten there for over 25 years; served on numerous committees and boards; wrote children's Sunday School curriculum for Warner Press; and co-authored a craft book. Elsie was a deeply committed Christ-follower who was passionate about missions and world evangelism. She and her husband were world travelers (to over 26 countries), and had served in missions for 4 months in Tanzania in the '70s. They also wintered in Tucson, Arizona for 23 years, and were active in the First Church of God there.
Elsie was a brilliant and creative lady who enjoyed art of all forms (member of Anderson Art Society). She was an avid reader of books, gardener, photographer, flower arranger, did years of ceramics and oil painting, and crafts of every type. Elsie was employed at The Fair Store/Weiler's Department Store for 10 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her only sibling, Evaline (Martin) Denniston. She is survived by her 3 children, Donald H. (Janet) Blackwell of Anderson; Bruce A. (Cheryl) Blackwell of Elwood; and Janet A. (Robert) Edwards of Anderson; 8 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great granddaughters.
The family expresses sincere gratitude to the Staff at Meadowbrooke Center for their loving care of Elsie and the family in the end process, especially to Marilyn. Also we wish to thank Barb and the Dietary Department for a job well done over these nearly 2 years dealing with a very restrictive diet.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 12, 2011 at Park Place Church of God in Anderson with Dr. Donald Johnson and Rev. Steve Denniston officiating. Visitation with family members will be one hour preceding the service (to begin at 3:00 p.m.), and at a reception following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Park Place Church of God or to Christians Broadcasting Hope (CBH).
Arrangements are being handled by Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service
E-mail condolences may be sent to [email protected].