Obituary
Joe Ivey Blackmon, Jr.

Joe Blackmon 1954–2024 Joe Ivey Blackmon Jr., 69, of Greenville, NC died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, in Raleigh, NC on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Joe was born in Pensacola, Florida, to Joe Ivey Blackmon Sr. and Joyce Coffelt Blackmon on September 7, 1954. He was the oldest of four children. Joe served in the Army, stationed in Germany, before embarking on a career with the federal government that lasted over thirty years, eventually retiring as an environmental specialist for the Bureau of Land Management. While working, he attended Pensacola Junior College and the University of West Florida. Joe was curious, adventurous, full of ideas and ever-changing interests. A mainstay was his love of music, always discovering new bands, and in later life, playing his mandolin. In his final days, he found joy listening to favorite songs with his family. Throughout his life he was passionate about long-distance running, rock carving, riding motorcycles, math, the American West, reading, his family, spicy food, and even during his last waking hours, ice cream. Joe was very proud of his children and grandchildren, and loved to sing their praises. He will be remembered for his impressive hair, ability to make a friend anywhere, the impact his sobriety and sponsorship had on countless people, and in his words, for doing “the best he could with what he had.” Joe was preceded in death by his father, Joe Blackmon Sr. Joe’s memory will live on with those who survive him: his mother, Joyce Coffelt Blackmon; his children, Aaron (Andy), Sarah Lips (Brian), Jesse (Heather Copley), and David (Crystal Cameron), and grandchildren Frances and Greta Lips; as well as siblings Bob (Mandy), Phil (Darlene), Christine Blackmon Huber, and many nieces and nephews. Additionally, he is survived by his dear companion, Karen Palmer. He cherished David McGhee, Steve Ghesquire, and Mark Howell, as well as many other friends the family has not yet met, but whose friendship Joe treasured. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of WakeMed, especially the neuro department nurses and techs, resident doctors, and the palliative care team with Transitions Lifecare. Their compassionate care for Joe and the whole family will forever be appreciated. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s name to Transitions Lifecare or MusicMakers Foundation. A small family graveside service will happen immediately, with a larger celebration of life to be planned at a later date.