Mr. Johnnie Blackshear Sr. died Sept. 24 at his residence in Newton County. The son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank (Jane) Blackshear, he was born in 1913 in Washington County. Mr. Blackshear moved to Covington at the age of 13. A hard worker, Mr. Blackshear was employed at Bibb Manufacturing for 33 years and later at McGregor for 17 years, until his retirement. During his spare time he was an industrious farmer and gardener. Mr. Blackshear was a faithful and devoted member of Richards Chapel United Methodist Church and served as treasurer and trustee for over 50 years. He was a member of Mansfield Lodge No. 295 for several years and received the honor of the Gold Card Pin. Mr. Blackshear was preceded in death by his wife of 74 years Luvenia Zachary Blackshear.

Surviving are children Johnny (Christine) Blackshear, Eunice Babb, Mary Hopson, Hollis (Maggie) Blackshear, Betty Jean Blackshear; sister-in-law Katie Mae Reed, all of Covington; 11 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will held at 1 p.m. today, Sept. 28, with the Rev. Michael Sercye officiating. Interment will follow at Richards Chapel Cemetery.