Ethel Blackman

June 7, 1949 - October 12, 2018

Ethel Blackman was born June 7, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois to parents William and Mosella Blackman. She was one of four children and the only girl. Ethel received her formal education in the Chicago Public School system. She attended Kennedy King College and majored in Business Administration. Upon completing school she began working at the United States Post Office she continued there until she could no longer work. Ethel met the love of her life Larry Graham and their union lasted over 32 years. She was blessed with five children. She was an exceptional mom who raised her children to be strong people who understood the value of hard work and a good time. Ethel enjoyed life. She loved the Lord and enjoyed listening to and watching spiritually enriching programs. She liked to listen to music and dance. She was a people person who never met a stranger, and was always willing to help others. On October 12, 2018, Ethel Blackman closed her eyes and rested from her labors. She was preceded in death by her parents William and Mosella Blackman; beloved husband Larry; daughter Kathleen Blackman; brothers Butch Dillworth, Edward Blackman and Carl Blackman aka Twister; and grandchildren Carl Lynwood and Vernon Lester. Ethel leaves to cherish her memory and continue her legacy, her children Derek Blackman, Patricia (Nehemiah) Barker, Valerie Blackman and James Bryant; grandchildren Dominique Lynwood, Robin Snowden, Patricia Miah Barker, Namiah Barker, Nehemiah Barker Jr., Jeremiah Barker, Tameka Lester, Derek Anthony Blackman Jr., Dearle Blackman, Aliyah Blackman, Derekah Blackman, Shaq Lewis, Diamond Blackman, James Bryant Jr., JaMarco Bryant, JaMircle Bryant, Jaden Bryant and Jamile Bryant; great grandchildren Ava, Donta, Ta and Charmisa; brother William Blackman; nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and family too numerous to mention.