Don Blackburn

Don Blackburn was born February 13, 1933 to George Harrison and Annie Blackburn on Blackburn Road where he grew up and lived his entire life. Don’s Heavenly Father welcomed him into his arms June 19, 2024.

Don was the youngest of 6 children. Farming and ranching was his passion at a young age. He was a wheat farmer and cattle rancher. Raising registered Hereford and Angus cattle, selling bulls, heifers, and club calves was one of his favorite interests. Don was a man of the land. One of his proudest accomplishments was receiving the Texas Land Heritage award for having a working family farm for over 100 years.

Jessie Blackburn was the love of his life for 67 years. They could always be seen together whether it was going to church, traveling on yearly vacations with family, or simply watching old westerns.

Elmdale Baptist Church was near and dear to his heart. “I attended Elmdale my whole life plus 9 months” he always said smiling. Serving God as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and music director for over 50 years was a few ways Don shared his time and talents. He loved gospel music and sharing his faith through singing.

Don served on the Elmdale School Board, the Eula School Board, and Board of Directors of the Texas Tank Truck Carriers Association. He worked with the Texas Legislature on bills that would benefit the trucking industry. Don was a dedicated, loyal, and hardworking employee with an impeccable work ethic. He showed kindness to all he met. In addition, telling stories to others about his childhood, his farm, his family, his friends, and his faith made him a people magnet.

The family want to offer their most sincere gratitude to Don’s Morada Assisted Living family. His precious caregivers called him “Mr. Don” and gave him the utmost respect and care. They were more than aids..they were his friends.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, and 2 sisters. He is survived by his wife Jessie Blackburn, 3 daughters—Kay Tangner and husband Skip Tangner, Karen Smith and husband Buster Smith, Kristie Elliott and husband Richard Elliott, 5 grandchildren—Cody Smith and wife Tiffany Smith, Clay Tangner and wife KC, Tripp Elliott and wife Mallory, Scott Elliott and wife Ellen, Shane Elliott and wife Millie, 8 great grandchildren—Jordan Smith, Jayden Smith, Jessie Kate Elliott, Landry Elliott, Bonnie Elliott, Palmer Elliott, Sutton Kuykendall, and Sadie Kuykendall.  A special recognition to several nieces, nephews, church family, and special friends. 

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Elmdale Baptist Church Building Fund, 233 Elmdale Road South, Abilene, Texas 79602.

If you knew Don Blackburn, you can hear him saying with that sweet kind voice —“Bye now”.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, June 22, 2024, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd., Abilene.

Memorial services will be 3:00 p.m., Sunday, June 23, 2024, at Elmdale Baptist Church, 233 Elmdale Rd. South, Abilene.