Ronald Eugene Blackwell, 91, of Inman, South Carolina, passed away on Friday, September 4, 2026, at his residence. Born June 14, 1935, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Hilliard K. Blackwell and Evelyn M. Buice.

He was predeceased by his high school sweetheart and wife of 66 years, Ann Jones Blackwell.

Ronald dedicated over 30 years to the City of Spartanburg Parks and Recreation Department as Athletic Director. Also a devoted coach of youth sports and officiating athletic events. A lifelong sports fan, he enjoyed the Atlanta Braves, Clemson football, and NASCAR. He was a member of Boiling Springs First Baptist Church, and he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps.

Ronald was also a DJ for beach music and was involved with the R&B Shag Club and a lifelong member of the Upstate Shag Club. Most importantly, he treasured spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his sons: Ronald “Eric” Blackwell (Dee) and Timothy Brian Blackwell; his brother, Carol Blackwell; numerous nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Ginny Layton and brother-in-law, John Jones.

In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Melanie Blackwell and sister-in-law, Nita Blackwell.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Boiling Springs First Baptist Church, with Rev. Ronnie Cox and Chaplain Reggie Parker officiating. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 11:30 a.m., prior to the service.

Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens, with military honors in recognition of Ronald’s service in the United States Marine Corps.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agape Hospice.