Marie Blackwelder

Marie Ellis Blackwelder, 98, of Evington, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025.

Born on April 5, 1927, in Franklin County, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Hubert and Annabelle Ellis and the beloved wife of James A. Blackwelder, Jr., of the residence. Marie was a dedicated employee of CB Fleet, where she retired after many years of faithful service. She was also the last surviving sibling of thirteen children.

A longtime member of Lakewood Baptist Church in Evington, Marie found great joy in her faith, her family, and the simple pleasures of life.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sons, James “Toby” W. Robertson, Jr. and wife Janet; Michael E. Robertson and wife Judy; Allen W. Robertson and wife Patty; and her stepson, Brad Blackwelder and wife Kelly. Marie’s legacy lives on through her 17 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and joy. Marie was preceded in death by her daughter, Janet R. Clark.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home in Lynchburg. A celebration of Marie’s life will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., also at Tharp Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Virginia Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Marie’s memory by “feeding the birds,” a quiet joy that brought her much happiness.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.