Mr. James Monroe Blackwell, born July 4, 1923, in Kervin, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, after an extended illness He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Callie Blackwell of Kervin; and his first wife, Jeri Dickey Blackwell of Arlington, Texas. Jim was retired from Texas Electric Service Co. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving during World War II. He had resided in Blountville for the last 15 years. He was a graduate of Gemological Institute of America. Jim loved to facet stones and won many awards for his excellent work over the years, he also judged gem and mineral shows at the state and national level. Jim was an avid gardener and an admirer of history and literature. Survivors include his wife, Sue Lawson Blackwell of Blountville; a son, Jimmy Blackwell and wife, Pam, of Chattanooga, Tenn.; a daughter, Nancy Blackwell of Gray, Tenn.; stepsons, Tim Lawson and wife, Donna of Kingsport, Tenn., Richard Lawson and wife, Brenda of Overland Park, Kan.; three step-grandchildren, Annie Lawson Krasnow and husband, Joel, Ben Lawson and Sarah Lawson; two great-grandchildren, Michael Lawson and Austin Maxfield; and a very special caregiver, Vicki Hill of Gray. Funeral services for Mr. James M. Blackwell will be conducted 7 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, in the Akard Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Tim Lawson officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 p.m. prior to the service. Graveside services will be conducted 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010. Honorary pallbearers will include Tony Dunford, Richard Lawson, Bill Helton, Jim Helton, Mike Emerson and Dr. David Thompson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice in his name. E-mail condolences may be sent to the family at [email protected] Akard Funeral Home, 1912 W. State St., Bristol, TN (423) 989-4800, is serving the family of Mr. Blackwell.