Joe Maddux Blackbourn, 89, passed away on October 13 in Starkville, MS. He was born on September 28, 1925 in Blossom, Texas and was the younger son of Frank and Velma Blackbourn. He lived the list 46 years of his life in Starkville. Dr. Blackbourn was a United States Navy veteran, serving in both the American and Asiatic-Pacific Theaters during World War II. He dearly loved his country and always commented on the beauty of the stars and stripes when he saw the flag flying. Dr. Blackbourn enjoyed a long career of teaching, coaching, and administration in the public schools of Texas and served as a professor in both Missouri and Mississippi. He enjoyed a close relationship with his players, students, and colleagues. The highlight of his professional career was his work in assisting numerous Mississippi public schools in their efforts to desegregate in the 1970s. His passing comes following a long retirement filled with hunting, fishing, family, and friends.

Dr. Blackbourn was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife of 52 years, Betty Blackbourn, a second wife, Sue Blackbourn, and a brother, Frank Blackbourn, Jr. He is survived by two sons, Joe Blackbourn, Jr. (Vonda) of Oxford and Richard Blackbourn (Jennifer) of Starkville; three grandsons, Marshall Blackbourn (Sarah) of San Diego, California, Forrest Blackbourn of Starkville, Lucian Blackbourn of Oxford; three granddaughters, Audra Goolsby (Chase) of Oxford, Alyssa Petri (Brad) of Lexington, Kentucky, Victoria Blackbourn of Oxford, and two great-grandchildren.

Visitation will take place at First United Methodist Church, Starkville from 9:00am to 11:00am on Thursday, October 16 with the funeral service immediately following. Interment will be on Saturday, October 18 10:00am at Knights of Honor Cemetery in Blossom, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dr. Blackbourn’s name can be made to the Music Ministry of First United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.