Ruth V. "Dee" Blackwell

On June 9, 2023 Ruth Vowan "Dee" Blackwell peacefully passed away at her home in Chapin, SC. Mrs. Blackwell was the daughter of the late Benjamin Harrison Vowan and Dola Nixon Vowan.  She was the widow of Harold Estes Blackwell.

Mrs. Blackwell was born in Marianna, Arkansas. After marrying, she made her home and raised her children in Union, SC. She is the last living member of her immediate family. She was proceeded in death by three brothers, Ben Vowan (Mary Ann), Carl Vowan (Charlene), Robert Vowan (Que);  one sister, Virginia (TJ) Ashley and a sister-in-law, Carolyn Blackwell Law (Gus). She is survived by a son, Harold Estes (Hal) Blackwell of Charlotte, NC and Mary Virginia Blackwell Greene (Bill) of Chapin, SC. Two granddaughters, Victoria Vowan Parks (Josh) of Easley, SC and Claire Elizabeth Byrne (Dillion) of James Island, SC. Also, the mother of her grandchildren, Anita Jane Miller of Williston, SC. She is survived by many nieces and nephews, who she loved dearly.

Prior to marrying, Mrs. Blackwell was an airline hostess for Braniff Airlines. After marriage, she was a dedicated wife and mother.  Before years of declining health, she was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Union, teaching kindergarten and Sunday School. She was a longtime member of the Criterion Book Club, the Thursday afternoon bridge club, and The Union Cotillion Club.  Mrs. Blackwell enjoyed reading, sewing, and cheering on the Clemson Tigers.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude and thanks to her wonderful friend and caregiver, Angie Campbell.  Also, to Agape Care of South Carolina, especially her nurse, Kim Campbell and her CNA, Doreen.

Private services will be scheduled by the family for a later date.