Mary Autry Blackwood, 83

Mary A. Blackwood, 83, of Ellenboro, passed away Saturday, April 1, 2023 peacefully at home after a battle with cancer.

She was born in Lowell, NC on September 29, 1939 and was a daughter of the late John Lynox Autry and Helen Bowen Autry. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Devin McDowell.

Mary was a graduate of Gaston College with ADN degree. She also earned her BSN degree from UNCC and her Master's degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She was a dedicated nurse for many years, eventually teaching nursing for just as many years at ICC, Gaston College, and Gardner-Webb University. She touched countless lives throughout her life with her deep sense of caring, compassion and testimony of God's will.

She was a faithful wife for 63 years, and a faithful Pastor's wife for 56 years. She was devoted to God; her husband and family. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were  she cherished the most and always wanted the best for them, including a close and meaningful walk with her Lord.

She loved her Bible and read it daily. She loved flowers and worked in her yard as long as her health permitted. Her greatest joy was watching her grandchildren grow and prosper into adulthood; and being able to see great grandchildren come along.

She is survived by her husband, Dr. Wayne Blackwood; her son, Scott Blackwood and his wife Kerrie of Cliffside; her daughters, Donna Hewitt and her husband Jeff of Cliffside, and Angelia McDowell and husband Todd of Rutherfordton; her siblings, Jerry Autry, Tommy Hulcey, and Faye Hulcey, all of Lowell; there are five grandchildren, Brandi Reid, Briana Blackwood, Brannon McDowell, Grayson Hewitt, and Grant Hewitt; there are four great grandchildren, Haven Reid, Savannah Reid, Roman Reid, and Lillie Hewitt.

The Funeral will be conducted at 4:00 pm Monday, April 3, 2023 at Bethel Baptist Church. The Rev. Mike Elgin and Rev. Jerry Mathis will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers are Brannon McDowell, Grayson Hewitt, Grant Hewitt, Ronnie Bailey, Ted Hawkins and Tommy Greene.

 Following the graveside service, the family will receive friends in the church Family Life Center.

Washburn & Dorsey Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences @www.washburndorsey.com.