Deacon Clarence Elmer Blackburn, Jr.

Clarence Elmer Blackburn Jr., was born on December 9, 1953 in Nashville, TN to the late Clarence Blackburn Sr. and Mattie Haddox Blackburn. He peacefully departed this life on February 3, 2026.

Clarence, affectionately known as “Spoon” received his education in the Metro Nashville Public School System. He was a star basketball player and a member of the school band. He graduated from Cameron High School in 1971. Following graduation Clarence furthered his education at Morristown Junior College in Morristown Tn. West Georgia College in Georgia and Belmont College in Nashville Tn where he was a basketball star. He majored in Education.

Clarence dedicated 40 years of faithful service as an employee with K.R. Harrington Water Treatment Plant before retiring in 2019. He also was employed as a Umpire with Metro Parks.

At an early age Clarence accepted Christ and was baptized at Pleasant Valley Primitive Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Elder A.C. Fuller. He later united with Love Fellowship Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as an ordained Deacon under the leadership of Bishop William A. Raybon Sr., until his health began to decline.

Clarence met the Love of his life, Mary, and the two were united in holy matrimony in 1984. Their union was filled with Love, Devotion and Cherished memories.

Clarence was outgoing and had a deep love for sports. He especially enjoyed playing baseball and umpiring games. He also loved music, laughter, spending time with family and creating lasting memories with those he loved.

Clarence is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gilbert Lee (Peggy) McCullum. Father and mother in-law Pop and Mom Turner.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted and loving wife, Mary Blackburn. Devoted sons, Herbert and Trenity Turner. Loving sisters, Janice Blackburn, Annetta Bryant. Grandchildren, Deniea, Kennedi, Akira, Diamond, Julius, Trenity Jr., and Ilana. Great grandchildren Maya and Niko along with other relatives and friends.