Stephen Robert Blackwell

Stephen Robert Blackwell, 76, of Mills River passed away on Friday, April 23, 2021 at Pardee Memorial Hospital in Hendersonville, NC, following a period of declining health.

A native of Henderson County, Steve was the son of the late Curtis Robert and Charlie Sue Blackwell. He was a graduate of West Henderson High School where he was a member of the inaugural football team. Prior to retirement, he worked as a Millwright with Kimberly Clark Corporation. Before his illness kept him from participating, he was an active member of the Etowah Lions Club. Steve loved spending time with his family and was an avid fisherman and gardener.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Rose Blackwell; son, Shane Neill and wife, Vicki of Saluda; daughter, Danna Conn and husband, Chad of Franklin, TN; four grandchildren, Stephen Neill and wife, Elyssa, Kayla Neill, Taylor and Cayden Conn; three great-grandchildren, Addysen, Easten and Kolsen Neill; two sisters, Judy Brevard and Margaret Warren; niece, Shannon Hilyer and husband, Eric and their daughter, Emily; nephew, Mike Brevard in addition to other multiple nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life with family and friends will be held at a later date.