Mary "Kitty" Kathryn Blackburn

Mary Kathryn (Kitty) Blackburn, 90, a longtime resident of Jacksonville, FL passed away January 24, 2021. Kathryn was born on November 7, 1930, to Herman and Myrtle Dyess in LaBelle, FL. Kathryn married her husband Gene on April 8^, 1950, and was married just shy 62 years when he passed away.

Kathryn’s priority was her family and was a stay-at-home mom who was very involved in all school activities. You could find her working concession stands, as well as every PTA and band event.  She eventually began her career at Irwin Research as a door-to-door interviewer and worked her way up to become the president of the company working until the age of 80 when the company dissolved. She was a member of The Daughter’s of the Nile, Chapter 85, and an active part of the Provost Guard when her husband was a member. Living on Memory Lane was a dream come true for Kathryn. The neighbors became close friends always looking out for one another and for this gift, her children are very thankful.  Being involved at her church was a huge part of her life. As a member of Murray Hill Presbyterian, she was the Sunday School Coordinator, oversaw the annual Fall Festival, and could always be found in the church kitchen. She was the Treasurer and an active member at Crystal Springs Baptist Church until she joined her current church, Hope for Life Baptist. The members of Hope for Life quickly became her second family.  She looked forward to her Rock Bible study group, serving in the nursery, cleaning at the church, and anything that involved a meal. In addition to volunteering at the church, she selflessly gave of herself to everyone who knew her. Kathryn had a servant's heart and loved to do for others. Her cooking, crafting, baking and chocolate dipping was a gift she loved to share with others.

If you know Kathryn, you know she is an avid Gator fan! She has attended football games since 1964. Eventually, she and Gene would attend out of town games and after his passing, she continued going to them with her daughters. COVID-19 put a damper on attending games this year, but she faithfully watched every game on television which included a win over the Georgia Bulldogs on her 90^th birthday.

Kathryn is preceded in death by her parents and husband. She is survived by her children: Larry Blackburn (Stephanie Hellstrom), Jane Schimmelmann, Kristi Finn (Bill), Kellie Walker (Michael), and her nine grandchildren: Sarah (Tracy), Katie, Scott, Will, Haley, Mick, Kathryn, Justin, and Sydney and one great-grandson Max, as well as her beloved dog, Bennie.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00am, Saturday, February 20, 2021 at Hope for Life Baptist Church with Pastor Billy Bray officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope for Life Baptist Church, 7725 Ramona Blvd. W., Jacksonville, FL 32221.