Jerry Blackburn

It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we announce the passing of Jerry Blackburn, a beloved partner, devoted family man, and cherished friend, who left this world on May 16, 2026, after a lengthy illness. Born in Pulaski, Tennessee, on October 7, 1947, Jerry's life was one of service, love, and dedication to those around him. Jerry was the proud son of Donald Eugene Blackburn and Annie Ruth Pierce Blackburn, both of whom predeceased him, along with his sisters Sandra and Charlene Blackburn, and step-brothers Dan and Robert Summers. He is survived by his loving partner of 32 and a half years, Charlene Luther, with whom he shared a bond so profound that every 27th of the month was a celebration of their enduring love. Their affectionate nicknames for each other, ‘my Sweetman’ and ‘my Sweetie Pie,’ spoke volumes of their deep connection. Jerry embraced Charlene's children, Benjamin Luther and Erin Vingiello, as his own. He also leaves behind Erin's husband, Anthony Vingiello, and their son, Reade Charles Vingiello, who brought immeasurable joy to his life. His sister, Jan Blackburn Whitworth, and her husband William, stepmom Polly Blackburn, stepsisters Sue Hamby (Wendell) and Claire Conner (Roy), stepbrother Macy Summers (Sherry), and close friends Bob and Betsy Luther, and David and Michelle Goodman also mourn his passing. A proud graduate of Lenoir High School in 1965, Jerry furthered his education with a degree in Civil Engineering from Tennessee Tech University, followed by an MBA from the University of Tennessee. His commitment to service saw him enlist in the United States Navy during the Vietnam conflict, where he served as an Aviation Structural Mechanic aboard the USS America (CVA-66), maintaining the Vigilante aircraft and sharing countless stories of his experiences. Jerry's professional life was marked by his work as a Civil Engineer for the Tennessee Valley Authority, where he designed and oversaw the construction of numerous recreational facilities, including a notable pavilion at Ocoee for the 1996 Olympic Whitewater Games. His contributions to his community extended to supporting the ORUUC and the Oak Ridge High School Band, even driving the band equipment truck to events. An avid lover of nature, Jerry found solace in cultivating and maintaining his nearly 27 acres of urban forest in Sweetwater. He was known for his passion for storytelling, quick wit, and deep understanding of financial instruments, car mechanics, and natural forces. His love for history and biographies fueled his avid reading, while his spiritual practice involved Sunday contemplation and reading from his cherished King James Bible. Jerry's legacy is one of love and generosity. He was a man who deeply cared about his family, always ready to lend a helping hand to his neighbors without expecting anything in return. His thoughtful nature and humility made a difference in the lives of many, and he will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Jerry's honor, as a testament to his enduring spirit and commitment to helping others. Donations can be made at https://www.cancer.org. Jerry Blackburn's life was a testament to love, service, and kindness. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire those he touched. May his soul rest in peace, as his legacy lives on in the hearts of his loved ones.