William Larry "Ohio" Blackwell

William Larry “Ohio” Blackwell, beloved father, brother, cousin and friend passed away peacefully with family by his side on July 20, 2024, at Spartanburg General Hospital after battling several illnesses and covid. He was 76 years old.

Larry was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina in 1948 to Bernice Morrow Blackwell and William Thurman Blackwell. He moved with his family to Hubbard, Ohio and attended school there until high school. When his family returned to South Carolina he attended Gaffney High School and was nicknamed “Ohio” by his fellow classmates. He played football in high school and rumor has it, sang in a popular band. After graduating from Gaffney High in 1966, he briefly attended Gardner-Webb University before being drafted into the Army.

A Vietnam Veteran, Larry served valiantly in the 25th Infantry Division of the Army from 1968-1970. After returning from Vietnam, he joined his family’s construction business in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He later became a sales professional until his retirement.

Larry had a natural curiosity of the world and was an avid reader. He particularly enjoyed British spy novels and stories. An enthusiatic conversationalist, he enjoyed long discussions on a variety of subjects. With his friendly and open demeanor, he would strike up a conversation with almost anyone he encountered. 

Larry is remembered by his sisters as being a fun-loving prankster, a meticulous dresser who ironed and starched his own clothes in high school and having a euphoric laugh, usually at his own shenanigans! He was a brother who loved spending time with his sisters, culturing them on delicious food, great music and how to have a good time. 

He had a joyful love of listening to music and one of his favorite activities was going to Folly Beach in Charleston with his son, Keith.

In recent years, he had expressed his happiness and appreciation for the camaraderie and support of his close friends and cousins. A long-time best friend remembers him fondly for his great friendships, love of classic rock, telling a great joke and good conversations. One close friend shared; he was always just one of the coolest guys on the planet! 

He is survived by his son, Keith Blackwell, his sisters, Shirley Leslie, Lisa Winesburgh, Nancy Blackwell, and numerous nieces and nephews (who lovingly remember him for his big personality). He is predeceased by his mother, Bernice Morrow Blackwell and father, William Thurman Blackwell

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024.

Where: The Venue on Fairfield

447 Henderson Road

Chesnee, SC. 29323

Time: 2:00-7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers please bring your memories, photos and Bring Your Own Beer! RSVP to 203-219-3060 if you plan to attend