Published on May 2, 2025 6:26 am
Last Updated on May 2, 2025 7:01 am
Vera Blackwell, age 85, of Effingham, Illinois and formerly of Iola passed away peacefully at 7:53 am Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at the Willowbrook Memory Support Residences of Effingham in Effingham, Illinois.
Vera was born on October 11, 1939, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, the daughter of David and Susan (Whetstone) Price. She married Harry Blackwell on October 15, 1956, in Iola, Illinois and they shared 68 years of marriage together.
Vera dedicated her life to her family, primarily as a homemaker, creating a warm and loving home for her loved ones. Beyond her role as a homemaker, she possessed a remarkable talent and passion for crafting. Her skillful hands produced beautiful sewn creations, and her artistic flair was evident in the exquisite cakes she baked and decorated, often bringing joy to family gatherings and special occasions.
Vera’s interests extended beyond her home. Travel was another cherished passion. She cherished all of the trips she and Harry went on all over the United States. Many of their married years were spent exploring all of the backroad, unique places in the country. However, her greatest joy stemmed from her family. She cherished the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always making herself available and creating lasting memories.
Vera is survived by her husband: Harry Blackwell of Effingham; daughter: Debi Young of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida; 4 grandchildren; Luke (Julie) Ervin, Brandi (Brian) Sharp, Alexas Mills, Jerrin (Sarah) Mills; 8 great-grandchildren: Jacob Harvin, Cade Harkins, Andrew Harvin, Cavan Harkins, Glenn Harvin, Hope Mills, Garrik Mills, Cambrie Sharp.
Vera was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter: Pam Ervin; grandson: Devin Mills; and a brother: D.G. Price.
Funeral services to celebrate Vera’s life will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville with Brother Mike Durre officiating. Burial will follow at the Iola Cemetery, Iola, Illinois. A visitation will be held on Saturday morning from 10:00 to 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Vera’s memory to Transitions Hospice Care, Attn: Karen Krebe, 1318 N. Michigan Avenue, Marshall, IL 62441, 217-480-6943.
The family would like to thank the loving staff of Willowbrook Memory Support Residences for the stellar care they gave Vera during her last months of her life. They truly became family as well.
The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to entrusted with the arrangements and the family’s care. To sign the guestbook online or to share a memory or story of Vera, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.