of Conway, AR
January 14, 1925 - July 2, 2016
Ila Margaret (Rogers) Blackwell was born January 14, 1925 in Belen, Mississippi, and died July 2, 2016 in Conway, Arkansas. Her parents were the late Ila Gail (Webb) Rogers and Frank Anderson Rogers. Also preceding her in death were her sister, Beth Ferguson; and brothers, Frank A. Rogers and James Rogers.
Survivors include her daughter Gail Kinnaird, son Jay Blackwell and wife Londa, daughter Suzanne Gee and husband E.B. III; grandchildren Emily Kinnaird, Jarrod Kinnaird, Jason Blackwell, Lauren Spradlin (Josh), Alissa Huberty (David), Mary Blevins (Jared), and Audrey Harris; and great-grandchildren Kai and Sophie Spradlin, Ana, Seth and Cable Owen, and Nathan Blevins. Nieces, nephews, and their families also survive her.
A graduate of Blytheville High School and Texas Woman's University, Mrs. Blackwell went on to earn her Master's degree in education from Arkansas State University. She began her teaching career at Fairview Elementary School in Blytheville, Arkansas and was principal of Fairview at the time of her retirement. As a teacher, she shared with students her love of the Razorbacks and St. Louis Cardinals, but most importantly to recognize and have belief in their own strengths and talents. The impact she had on the lives of students and her love of teaching them may best be described in the words of Henry Adams: "A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops."
Life before marriage and teaching included growing up on Clear Lake Farm, attending for a brief time a one-room school, riding horses, and taking part in the outdoor sport activities of her older brothers and their friends. At the age of 21, she took flying lessons, learning to fly a single engine plane. She used her degree in journalism to work for a short time at the Blytheville Courier News.
After retirement, Ila moved to Little Rock, Arkansas where she, along with her dear friend the late B.J. Anderson, kept busy attending Razorback games, discovering new restaurants, traveling and doting on canine family members, Hobo and Tramp, and later, Dahli and Pauli. An avid reader of all genres, especially detective and mystery novels, Ila shared her love of reading with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Every visit included a trip to the bookstore for new reading material.
Although born in 1925, she was a tech savvy grandmother amazing her family by embracing the advancement of technology using the internet and current devices well into her late 80's.
Mrs. Blackwell's children and grandchildren treasure the life lessons and experiences she blessed them all with and will keep her memory alive by passing her life stories along to current and future great grandchildren.
A graveside service is scheduled for Saturday, July 23, 2016 at 9:00 A.M at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Conway, Arkansas.
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14 Condolence(s)
Tony Martin
Monday, July 25, 2016
I always really looked forward to our family get togethers with Aunt BJ and Ila during summer vacations. We had such good times at Devil's Den, and playing games with Ila is a memory I will cherish forever. She truly was an amazing person. Sending love to all of you.
Andy, Tina and Annie Martin
Friday, July 22, 2016
We are so fortunate to have had Ila and Aunt BJ as our aunts, whom we loved to visit and who made sure we never lacked for Razorback paraphernalia in our far flung living places. Among so many things, we shared the love of books (read my first Tony Hillerman in their living room), trips to Devil's Den and their great sense of humor- will remember them always. Much love to the Blackwell family.
Sally Delgado
Friday, July 22, 2016
Dear Gail, Jay, Suzanne and families:
My family is so thankful to have shared so many great moments in our lives with Ila. Since childhood, our family vacations always included visits with Ila and BJ, and those memories are highlights for all of us. From being introduced to Donkey Kong (and many subsequent games), to Devil's Den summers, and to always knowing the "Little Rock 4" apartment was an open-armed stopping place on drives across the country, we loved every minute. Our hearts are with you all tomorrow and always. Love, Sally
Glenda McNew
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Londa, Jay, and other family members--
Christie and I read of Jay's mother's death. We send our prayer, thoughts, and sympThy. May you find comfort n the memories.
Glenda and Christie McNew
Lillian Beth Lehmann Kirk
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Mrs. Blackwell was a feared (in a good way) and loved principal. I am thankful I attended Fairview Elementary while she and so many excellent teachers devoted their lives to educating and loving children. I am sorry for your loss.
Stefanie B
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Mrs. Blackwell was the first person I met when I enrolled at Fairview School, after having gone to private schools in previous grades.
I remember her asking me if I knew anyone that went to school there; I told her the name of a neighbor and she said, "Well, then! You'll be in the same classroom!"
My condolences to the family.
LaJean Garner Brown
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Gail and Suzanne,
I'm so sorry for the loss of your mother. I remember so well going to your house when we were growing up. Your mother was so strong and gave each of you direction. She lived a long life and I know you will have so many memories of her life.
Jill Simpson
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Another family member reunited. I know Mom is getting all caught up now. I'm glad for my recent visits with her but the childhood memories will live on. Will see you Cousins Saturday.
Sharon Donoho-Partridge
Monday, July 18, 2016
I'm so very sorry to hear about the passing of your
Mother. I know the loss of our Mother leaves a hole in our
Hearts that can never be filled. But, you will always be
wrapped in her love and her sweet memories will live on with
you forever. She was a wonderful lady and touched many loves
You all were so very blessed to have her as your Mother
Grandmother and Great Granmother. My prayers and my heart
are with you all. May God bless you with his tender love
and help guide and carry you through the coming days.
Sharon Donoho-Partridge
Charise Christian
Monday, July 18, 2016
What an amazing woman and what a rich and vibrant life she led! Our sincere condolences to your family. May you always treasure the memories you hold in your heart.
Sherry Mannon Cole
Monday, July 4, 2016
Mrs. Ila Blackwell was a great friend and Principal at Fairview in Blytheville. I got my start there as an educator and she became my friend and mentor. She was a wonderful person who touched my life in many ways. I will remember her always! RIP Mrs. B!!!
The Jenkins
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Gail, we're so sorry for your loss. We are praying that God will give your family peace and the strength to get you through. You know we all love you very much.
Bob Rogers
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Oh my! I was saddened to hear the news today. What a wonderful sister, mother, grandmother and aunt Ila was. What wonderful memories I have of her, particularly over all the years when I would run into her with Betty here in Little Rock. So sorry for our loss. All the siblings are together again, which is comforting. Love you all so much. Sending hugs.
Bob
Jim Hindman
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Bob,
I am so sorry to hear about Aunt Ila. The family is in my thoughts and prayers.