Earl R Blackston

Many stories are written of those we love and of those who have entered the fold, but the stories of life with its burdens and strife, there has never a story been told, but my Jesus, yes Jesus he knows it all. Earl Randolph Blackston, went on to be with the Lord, Wednesday, March 9, 2016 at University Maryland Shore Nursing & Rehabilitation Center of Chestertown, Maryland. Earl was the third son of the late Lewin and Anna Mae Hicks Blackston born on July 3, 1932. He was preceded in death by brothers: Othello Blackston, Rev. Norman E. Blackston and Phillip Whye. Also proceeded in death by his sister Lucille Blackston Cotton and two sons; Linwood Blackston, Sr. and Bryan Blackston. Earl received his education through the Kent County Public School System. He was a graduate of Henry Highland Garnett High School. After graduation, he enlisted into the United States Army during the Korean War. On September 5, 1964, he married the love of his life, his African Queen Rev. Janice Ria Henry Blackston and thus they began their life as one. Earl worked at Campbell Soup Company in Chestertown, MD and in 1970 he joined Local 199 Laborers' International Union of Wilmington, DE until his retirement. Earl began his walk with Christ at an early age. He attended Mount Olive A.M.E. Church where he served as a faithful member, and was the church custodian for many years. He was a member of the "Love Ye One Another Chorus, the Mighty Men of Mount Olive and sang lead tenor with the Heavenly Echoes. He played the piano, organ and guitar for the Booster Choir, the Blackston Family, and the Family Circle of Ridgley, MD. Earl also enjoyed playing the keyboard and harmonica. He loved listening to Quartet music. Some of his favorite groups were "The Fantastic Violinaires and The Gospel Keynotes." He would always hum a song and tell you to sing the song, but if you didn't get the notes right he would tell you so. Some of his favorite songs were, "Ain't It Sweet Just To Know One Day We Will Meet", "Singing With The Angels", and "In The Little Wooden Chapel Way Out On A Hill". Earl was a joy to be around. He loved his family and loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was a quiet spirited man who would do anything for anybody. Earl would give you his last. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of over 51 years, Rev. Janice Blackston; four daughters: Iris (William), Elder Charlotte, Shirlene and Angelia (Gregory); two sons: Deacon Stevie (Darlene) and Pastor Gregory Blackston (Co-Pastor Shirley); one brother, Wayman; one sister, Delores; five sisters-in-law: Ileen, Helen, Vera, Trinita and Darcus; five brothers-in-law: Allen, Gregory, Raymond, Paul and Ralph; two aunts: Margaret and Velma; one uncle, Hoover Seth; 19 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, numerous god-children and friends. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Earl R Blackston, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Earl R Blackston

July 3, 1932 - March 9, 2016