Obituary

Gregory Alan Blackwell
February 7, 1959 - February 9, 2020



Gregory Alan Blackwell, our special angel passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice, Carpenter House in Baton Rouge on February 9, 2020. Greg was born on February 7, 1959 in Memphis, TN to his proud parents Gifford and Frances Blackwell. Greg lived in Franklinton until he entered the Hammond State School (now the Hammond Development Center) where he could receive the numerous therapies and special care that he needed. He lived in Ponchatoula for the last few years of his life in a group home. Greg had a number of profound physical and mental limitations. He could not speak, walk or feed himself but he could definitely indicate to his family and caregivers his likes and dislikes. He loved to eat—ice cream was his favorite. He enjoyed long strolls in his wheelchair and showed delight with a smile and a side to side movement of his head. A ride in a car was another favorite. Music excited him and soothed him. Greg would rock back and forth in his chair as he laughed and smiled. He could also indicate displeasure with something by pushing it away or by very clearly vocalizing his dislike. He could let everyone know when he was hurting or uncomfortable by his vocalizations and facial expressions. Living to the age of 61, Greg far outlived what medical professionals predicted and his life was truly a blessing to his family, those that knew him and the many people who cared for him through the years.

Survived by: Loving Mother: Frances Chadwick Blackwell of Franklinton; Sister and Brother in law: Kay and Harold Mosher of Baton Rouge; 2 Brothers: Michael Blackwell, Todd Blackwell both of Franklinton; Niece: Hayley Mosher; 3 Nephews and a Spouse: Scott Blackwell, Jake and Miranda Blackwell, Shea Blackwell; Great-niece: Kenzie Blackwell; 2 Great-nephews: River Blackwell, Beau Blackwell; Also numerous aunts, uncles and cousins that loved him dearly

He was preceded in death by his father Gifford Blackwell, paternal grandparents Ellis and Vergie Blackwell, maternal grandparents Herman and Margaret Chadwick.

Visitation will be at Crain Funeral Home (1109 Bene Street, Franklinton) on Wednesday February 12th from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 1:00 pm Wednesday with Rev. Shad Pittman officiating. Burial will follow in the Thomas Cemetery.

The Blackwell family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the loving caregivers of Evergreen Group Home in Ponchatoula and to the wonderful staff, therapists and doctors that worked with Greg at Hammond Development Center. They would also like to thank the very special nurses, doctor, chaplains and staff for the kind and professional attention to Greg and his family at St. Joseph’s Hospice, Carpenter House in Baton Rouge.