Obituaries

Willie James Blackmon

Longtime Riverhead resident Willie James Blackmon died Oct. 15. He was 91. 

Mr. Blackmon, known as James, was born Oct. 22, 1924, in Shorterville, Ala. to Alex and Gladys Blackmon and was raised by Elizabeth Blackmon. He attended Henry County Training School in Shorterville.

In 1950, Mr. Blackmon moved to Riverhead. For over 60 years, he lived in “The Greens.”

He worked as a brick mason and established his own business, retiring in 2012. His skilled masonry can be seen throughout Riverhead, including Town Hall, Maple Tree Deli and along Main Street.

Family members said Mr. Blackmon was a “people person,” who was kind, enjoyed helping the community and loved traveling slowly through town, waving to passersby. He also enjoyed big cars, especially his Cadillac, and watching baseball.

Mr. Blackmon is survived by his brother, Howard; his children, Marilyn Jones of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Lorraine Gray, of Patchogue, Jane Blackmon, also of Fort Lauderdale. as well as many other family members. He was predeceased by his brother, Ponell and sisters, Bernice Armstrong and Maezell Montgomory

The family received visitors Oct. 21 at Galilee Church of God in Christ in Riverhead, where a funeral service and repast followed.

Arrangements were in the care of Roertaccio’s Funeral Home in Medford.