Bobby Ray Blackwell, age 70, of Athens, Tennessee, went home to be with the Lord after a lengthy illness on Saturday, April 11, 2026. He was born on October 27, 1955, to the late Clifton and Willie Blackwell.

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bobby, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He had a deep love for hunting and enjoyed working with his hands, especially any project that involved a hammer. Bobby was a skilled carpenter for most of his life. Though he has left this world to join the angels and loved ones who went before him, his family finds comfort in knowing he has been joyfully reunited with them and is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

In addition to his parents, Bobby was preceded in death by his siblings, Barbara Harril, Peggy Curtis, Willie Blackwell, Patricia Blackwell, and Linda Raper; his beloved wife, Pat Blackwell; and his two young children, a son and a daughter.

He is survived by his daughters, Salena Avylon Rogers and Ashley Marie Pilkay; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, Cynthia Blackwell Thompson, Joseph Bradley Blackwell, and Sherry (Rick) Price; nephews, Ronnie (Denise) Raper Jr. and Sammy (Elaine) Jones; great-nephews, Nicholas and Dustin Raper; special friends, Daniel Bottoms and Jerry Barnett; as well as many extended family members and friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Chattanooga, especially his nurse, Amber Derrick, for the compassionate care shown during his time of need.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Liberty Hill Cemetery (121 County Road 470, Englewood, TN 37329), with Chaplain Chris Alexander officiating. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

You are encouraged to share a memory of Bobby and extend your condolences to his family by visiting his memorial page and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens and the Cody family are honored to assist with these arrangements.