CLARKS HILL, S.C. – Funeral Services for Mr. Roy M. Blackwell, 53, who went to be with his Lord and Savior September 30, 2015, will be conducted Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock from Sweetwater Baptist Church. Dr. Paul W. Noe and Pastor Phillip Howle officiating. Interment in Sweetwater Baptist Church Cemetery.

Mr. Blackwell was a life-long resident of Edgefield County and a member of Big Stevens Creek Baptist Church. He was the founder, publisher and editor of the Edgefield Daily Newspaper. Mr. Blackwell served as an Edgefield County First Responder, was a strong supporter of the Jimmy Shay Memorial Fishing Rodeo, an honorary member of the Merriwether Mavericks Chess Club and an avid Carolina Gamecocks fan. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. Mr. Blackwell was preceded in death by his father Verdy Blackwell and sister, Laura Baker.

Survivors include his high school sweetheart and wife of 32 years, Regenia A. Blackwell; his oldest daughter and a son-in-law, Leia and Joel Mattson, Graniteville, SC, a son, Matthew Blackwell, Clarks Hill, SC, his youngest daughter Christin Blackwell, Clarks Hill, SC; his mother, Eleanor Barney (Oscar), Evans, GA; three sisters, Janelle Keener (Mac), Winter Springs, Fl, Deborah Blackwell, Lawrenceville, GA and Cindy Elam, Evans, GA. He also leaves behind his precious granddaughter, Lacee Mattson, who he called his heart.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Sheriff Adell Dobey, Cpt. Chris Wash, Lt. Mark Howard, Lt. Randy Duran, Sgt. Phil Ireland and Nancy Luquire. Active Pallbearers will be Matthew Blackwell, Robert Brazell, Tim Crane, Joey Smith, Ashley Morgan and David Whatley.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday afternoon from 4 until 6.

Following the funeral service the family will host a reception at the Sweetwater Community Center for family and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Jimmy Shay Memorial Fishing Rodeo, PO Box 238, Edgefield, SC 29824 or to the Merriwether Fire Department, 1879 West Martintown Road, North Augusta, SC 29860.

Posey Funeral Directors of North Augusta in charge of arrangements (803.278.1181). Visit the registry at www.poseycares.com