Lora Louise Blackwell-Kern Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

On February 7, 2021, Lora Louise Blackwell-Kern peacefully passed away surrounded by her family. Lora was born June 7, 1930 in Murphysboro, Illinois. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Reeta (Waller) Grammer, sister, Berna Dean Galloway, her husband of 59 years, LaRue H. Blackwell and husband of 5 years, Joseph Kern. She is survived by three children, Gary E. Blackwell, Karen Blackwell Engell and Gayle Blackwell Stearns, 9 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Through her years of teaching music and English as a Second Language in 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 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.

Lora Louise Blackwell-Kern

June 7, 1930 - February 7, 2021