Obituary
Helen Blackwell, a long time resident of the Kansas City area passed away Tuesday August 4, 2021 just shy of her 95th birthday.
Born in Coulstone, Missouri on September 8, 1926, the daughter of Wm. Mac and Faye Halbert Gum, Helen lived most of her life in Missouri. She married Marshall Blackwell on June 5, 1945 in San Francisco, California following the end of WWII.
She is survived by son, Michael Blackwell; daughter, Marilyn Blackwell and daughter-in-law, Sheri Blackwell. Helen was blessed with seven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and two great- great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was a Raytown business owner, an active member of the Chamber of Commerce and loved to socialize. As an avid baseball fan, Helen followed the KC Athletics and continued to become a seasoned Royals supporter. She was recognized on the jumbotron at Kauffman Stadium in celebration of her 91 birthday with all of her grandchildren for a KC Royals game. She was a bridge player and loved to travel which she did extensively and in her later years enjoyed the companionship of the “Golden Girls”.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two siblings, Bill Gum (Barbara) and Margaret Nelson (Leland), husband Marshall Blackwell and son, Wm. Myron Blackwell.
Private services will be held for the immediate family followed by burial at Floral Hills in Raytown.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to One Community Hospice, 15600 Woods chapel Rd, Suite A, Kansas City, MO. 64139 for their loving care during her final months.
What a lady…I will forever remember enjoying time with her.
I will always cherish Helen’s friendship and her loving smile. Myron and Sheri brought her lovely ray of sunshine to West Lake Christian Church and she was a joy to all of us. Prayers and hugs to your family.
I deeply regret I am unable to attend today. I am sending love and hugs to each and everyone that Helen’s life touched. She meant a lot to me and her love helped me heal in many ways. She will always be special in my heart and mind.
Ronda
My sincere sympathies Sherri.
Michael, Marilyn & Sheri – just learning of Helen’s passing in August. I wanted to pass along my condolences to you & your families. Helen was a dynamic lady and a devoted friend to many, especially the “golden girls” who Mom so enjoyed being part of for many years. I remember her love of travel & the KC Royals – both Mom & I had many memorable moments with her – please know the positive influence she had on so many lives.
I wish you all peace & love this holiday season & a blessed new year.
Nancy Davis & Jean Martin