Helen Jean Blackson

Helen Jean (Harp) Blackson, the beloved matriarch of her family and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2024 in, Lebanon Virginia, just a few days after her 95th birthday. Born on November 29, 1929, in Harlan County, Kentucky, she was the daughter of Simon and Maude Harp.

Helen dedicated her life to being a nurturing homemaker, pouring her love into every meal she prepared and creating memories that her family will carry forever. Known for her incredible gift for cooking, she delighted family and friends with her famous pinwheels and spent more than thirty years making the hotdog chili for all the home football games at Castlewood High School - a tradition that her community cherished deeply.

Her life was filled with joyful moments, particularly through her hobby of square dancing with her husband, spending quality time with family and remaining a faithful member of St. Paul First Baptist Church as long as her health allowed. She was full of love and was deeply devoted to her children and grandchildren, who were her world. Her legacy of care and love will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Helen leaves behind her beloved son, Jack Blackson and his wife Lisa; her treasured grandchildren, Michael Blackson and his wife Christy, Kelly Elliott and her husband John, Todd Blackson, Chad Blackson and his wife Michelle, Dustin Blackson who lived with her and was her caregiver for several years, Jordan Blackson and his wife Farris, Mitchell Eastridge and Kirsti Eastridge. Her joy multiplied with each of her great-grandchildren: Raina, Austin, Ashton, Jack, Darren, Ingrid, Andrew, Luca, Mila, and Carter. Helen is also survived by her daughter-in-laws, Barbara Blackson and Trish Blackson.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband of sixty-seven years, William C. Blackson, and her two sons, Steve Blackson and Mike Blackson, as well as her brother, Charles Harp, Jr.

The family would like to honor Stacy Dishman and Missy Turner for their love and devotion to caring for Helen.

The family invites all who knew and loved Helen to celebrate her life during a visitation at Temple Hill Memorial Park Mausoleum in Castlewood, Virginia, on December 7, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a graveside service beginning at 2:00 PM with her grandson Jordan officiating as well as Rev. Andy Wood.

As we remember Helen Jean Blackson, we celebrate a life wonderfully lived, a heart unfailingly generous, and a spirit that continues to inspire those left behind. Her legacy of love, care, family gatherings, and delicious meals will be a comforting presence in the lives of all who were privileged to call her family.

The family of Helen Jean (Harp) Blackson is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service, 427 E. Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210 (276) 623-2700.