John Paul Blackman, Sr.

John Paul Blackman, Sr., 84, of Newton Grove, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025 at UNC Wayne Hospital of Goldsboro. 

John was born on October 3, 1941 in Johnston County to the late Talton E. Blackman and Thelma Smith Blackman.

He is also preceded in death by a son, John Blackman, Jr.; Brothers, Burtus Blackman and Charles Blackman; and a sister, Jean Parker.

The family will be receiving friends at Unity Presbyterian Church on Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM, officiated by Lay Minister, Rebecca O’Dell. He will be laid to rest at Unity Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

He is survived and loved by the love of his life of 61 years, Shirley Blackman; 
son, Jim Blackman (Deneen); daughter, Laurel “Laurie” Vick (Ricky); grandchildren, Matthew Vick (Jackie), Emily Merritt, Taylor Pritchett (Isaiah), Bethany Blackman (Christian Barnes), and Riley Blackman-Chapman; great-grandchildren, Lois, Richard “Dickie”, Robert “Howie”, Veda, and Hudson; brothers, Luther Blackman (Florence) and Tom Blackman (Mary); and sister, Judy Holley (Freeman). He is also loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends!

John was very proud to have served in the Marine Corp, where he served faithfully for 20 years as a Personnel Chief. He was a very patriotic man. After retiring from the military, he worked with the US Mail for 20 years. 

He was known for telling jokes and keeping people entertained, he never knew a stranger. A man of routine, he would be at the Food Lion every morning to get fresh bananas and telling jokes. He loved his family, and he was a proud grandpa and great grandpa. John also enjoyed playing golf and was serious about playing cards with his loved ones, Canasta was his favorite. 

He will always be loved and will be truly missed.

Dunn Funeral Home of Newton Grove is honored to serve the family of John Paul Blackman, Sr..