Bennie Robert Blackwell Jr., affectionately known as “CHOKE”, made his transition home on Tuesday, June 25, 2024. He was born on April 15, 1960, in Akron, Ohio to Mamie Stembridge and Bennie R. Blackwell Sr. He graduated from South High School. While in high school Bennie had a dance group called “Choke” and he was a dancing, dancing, dancing    machine. Right after high school, Bennie went to serve in the United States Marine Corp (“OORAH”). He served his country with honor and distinction as Sargent Bennie R. Blackwell Jr., leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. His military service was a testament to his bravery, discipline, and selflessness. He also graduated from Akron Barber College with honors.

Bennie “Choke” Blackwell was our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. His infectious laughter, unwavering optimism, and relenting devotion to family, friends and his country will forever be etched in our hearts. To us, Bennie was more than a war hero, he was a patriarch of our family, the glue that held us together with his quick wit, playful teasing, and unconditional love. His humor could light up a room, and his generosity inspired us to be better people.

As a lifelong Cleveland Browns fan, you could catch him sometimes in the stands of the “Dawg Pound” rooting them on no matter what. Bennie also played football with South Rangers, he loved softball, bike riding, teaching kids everything he knew, training dogs, cutting hair, and dancing the night away. He taught us that loyalty and dedication are just as important as a victory. He showed us that even in defeat, there is always hope and always something to laugh about.

As a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, he leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and cherished memories. His guidance, support, and unwavering belief in us shaped us into the people we are today. With his passing leaves an unfillable void. We take comfort in the knowledge that his spirit will continue to inspire us, make us laugh and remind us to cherish every moment.

Bennie was preceded in death by mother, Mamie Stembridge; brothers, Lamonte and Gary; sisters, Sharletta (Poochie), Elaine and Beatrice; and niece, Veronica Bell (Dbo). Also, preceding him in death was his service dog, Max.

He leaves to cherish his memory: father, Bennie Blackwell Sr.; children, Tanisha Williams, Waltae Lawson, Te’Maria Blackwell, Bethany Robinson and Tina Harris; his sisters, Evelyn, Brenda, Shirley, Carolyn and Celia (Steven); brothers, Willie (Skipper), Kenneth, Ralph and Anton; 12 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; special close friends, Marvin Shepherd, David Shepherd Jr.(Shawana), Rolnathan Bullock and special lady friend, April Smith, and a host of aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

“Rest in peace. Your impact on our lives will never fade!”