Lora Louise Blackwell-Kern
On Feb. 7, 2021, Lora Louise Blackwell-Kern peacefully passed away, surrounded by her family.
She was born on June 7, 1930, in Murphysboro.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Reeta (Waller) Grammer; a sister, Berna Dean Galloway; her husband of 59 years, LaRue H. Blackwell; and her husband of five years, Joseph Kern.
She is survived by three children, Gary E. Blackwell, Karen Blackwell Engell and Gayle Blackwell Stearns; nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Through her years of teaching music and English as a Second Language at area schools, leading choirs and youth programs in churches and mission work in China and Africa, she impacted the lives of many.
Throughout her life she was active in Baptist life in the area association and state, including being a founding member of University Baptist Church in Carbondale, leadership of the SIU Baptist Student Union and the First Baptist Church of Anna.
She was a founding member and remained active in the Union County Arts Council and derived great pleasure from the natural beauty surrounding her home. Her energy, storytelling and spirit will be missed.
Her body has been donated to science. The family will host a Celebration of Life at a later time.
Crain Funeral Home in Anna is in charge of arrangements.
To view the full obituary or to leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.crainsonline.com.