Luke Blackburn

Edward Luke Blackburn, 81 of Havana died Thursday, May 1, 2008 at his home. The funeral service will be at 2:00 PM, Sunday, May 4, 2008 at Luke Blackburn Farm, 619 Johnson Rd, Havana, FL with a private family internment at Salem Cemetery in Havana. Family will receive friends at the funeral home, Saturday evening from 6 to 8 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem Cemetery Fund, 6972 FL/GA Hwy, Havana, FL 32333 or to your favorite charity. Faith Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements (850-539-4300 or www.faithfuneralhome.com).

Mr. Luke was born in Gadsden County on February 27, 1927 . He enlisted in the US Navy at the age of sixteen. He served on the USS Burroughs and was a part of the 2nd invasion of the Phillippines. Mr. Luke was a true southern gentleman. He was a master craftsman/builder and was well known for building tobacco barns and family homes in Havana. He was a true outdoors man and nature lover and enjoyed hunting and fishing. His garden was a large part of his life, often he would plant vegetables just to share with his neighbors and friends. Mr. Luke's barn parties were big events in Havana and were often the talk of the town. Just a few years ago Elvis attended and preformed at one of his parties. Mr. Luke was also known for his stories and knowledge of past history in Havana and Gadsden County.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Eddie R. Blackburn of Havana. Two sons, Edward Luke Blackburn, Jr. of Troy, AL and Charles Powell (and wife Lina) of Tallahassee. Four daughters Cheree B. Jeter of Thomasville, GA, Rebecca L. Blackburn of Tallahassee, Nancy P. Whiddon (and husband Pat) of Perry, GA and Jenny Robertson (and husband Jeff) of Havana; and his best buddy Alvin. Nine grandchildren Thomas Jeter (and wife Grace Marie), Lee Ann Holloway (and husband Jeff), Heather Allen (and husband Lamar), Ashley Crosby (and husband Clay), Bailey Powell, Heath Whiddon, Kyle Powell, John Luke Robertson and Garren Robertson. Six great grand children Alexis Jeter, Emma Jeter, Erin Jeter, Vincent Holloway, Cannon Allen and Aleen Jeter. And his brother-in-law Tommy Rowell.
He was preceded in death by his parents Edward Lafayette and Theo Harden Blackburn, his brother Hugh Blackburn, his sister Martha Lee Phillips (and her husband Ralph).