Byron Thomas "Chad" Blackburn

Byron Thomas Blackburn, known by his friends and family as “Chad" passed away unexpectedly on July 11, 2020. He was 44 years old and lived in Bluefield, WV. He was born on April 30, 1976 in South Williamson, KY. Chad was the son of Harold "Connie" Collins & Carol Turner Collins of Bluefield, WV and Byron Blackburn of Williamson, WV. Chad was previously from Welch, WV and had lived in Bluefield since 1992. He attended Welch Elementary School, Welch Jr. High School, and graduated from Graham High School in Bluefield, VA. He attended Bluefield State College where he was on the Deans List and Presidential List. Chad was employed by Lawrence Brothers in Bluefield, VA as a HK laser operator. He was proud to be the main operator of their new fiber optic laser with smart cell technology that produced fabricated parts for their customers. Chad was also a certified welder and received diplomas for facilities maintenance courses, collision repair, and core curriculum. He enjoyed attending the Bluefield Blue Jay baseball games with his buddy, Marvin Turley; his son, Cameron; and friend forever, Amanda Hager. Chad had a passion for Harley Davidsons and Jeeps, enjoyed his new 4 wheeler, hunting, and loved playing with his fur buddy, Riddick, a Siberian Husky. Chad was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Harold and Doris Turner who loved him dearly and spoiled him terribly. Also, preceded in death by his (Granny June) June Blackburn of South Williamson, KY and his paternal grandfather, Robert Blackburn, of Williamson, WV. Left to cherish his memory forever are his parents and his only child, Cameron Thomas Blackburn. Cameron was the light of his Daddy's life. Two uncles, Allen Turner and wife Joanne of Austin, TX and Robbie Blackburn of South Williamson, KY. Several cousins including three special ones, Ed Goodson, Scott Goodson, and Paula Hypes Asbury. A private service will be held at Mercer Funeral Home in Bluefield, WV on Friday, July 17, 2020 at 11am with a short visitation prior to the service with burial following at Roselawn Cemetery in Princeton, WV. Chad will be laid to rest beside his loving grandparents, Harold & Doris Turner. Pallbearers will Ed Goodson, Scott Goodson, Ryan Turner, Steve Henegar, Brandon McCracken, Chad Lowrance, and Ronnie Collins. Those wishing to share memories or leave messages of condolences with the family may do so at www.MercerFuneralHome.com or may be mailed to his parents at 700 Parkway, Bluefield, WV 24701. Mercer Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family of Byron Thomas “Chad” Blackburn.

Byron Thomas "Chad" Blackburn

April 30, 1976 - July 11, 2020