Mr. Edward “Eddie” Prater Blackburn, of
Decatur, Mississippi, born November 23, 1939 in Fayette, Ala. to the late
Marguerite Prater and Noel Blackburn, passed away at age 78 on Sept 1, in Burbank, Cali.
He was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, and
graduated with a degree in Mathematics from University of Mississippi (Ole
Miss). After graduation, he worked as a geometry teacher and computer programmer
for the defense industry and finally entered the oil industry in Houston,
TX. In 1985, he transferred to San Ramon, Cali., as a systems
administrator at Chevron. During that time, he often took his daughters to
festivals, theaters and antique fairs. After being diagnosed with idiopathic
pulmonary fibrosis in 2012, Ed retired and moved to Laguna Woods, Cali. to be
closer to his family. He developed several lasting friendships as many hours
were spent playing Canasta and Rummikub, which were his favorite games. He
spent his final years hosting holiday dinners, dining in the town and going
to movies with his children. Always a sweet tooth, his home was never without
cookies and ice cream! An avid reader, his home was filled with many books.
Ed was considered a true kind “southern gentleman” as many have described
him.
He was preceded in death by his brother, David. He is survived by his
daughters, Vicki and Tammie; stepson, Greg; grandson, Jack; former wife,
Marilyn Freeman; sister-in-law, Janie Blackburn; nieces, Kasey Blackburn and
Michele Baird; and nephew, Michael Abernathy; and Cooper, the beloved family
dog.
He was of the Methodist faith. A celebration of life was held on Sunday,
Sept. 23 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at San Sebastian Apartments, 24299
Paseo de Valencia, Laguna Woods, Cali. Many family and friends came to
honor him with stories, laughter and prayers. It was a beautiful event,
enjoyed by all.
