Dr. Alma Montgomery Blackmon

Alma Blackmon Obituary

Died June 11, 2009

With great sadness, the family of Dr. Alma Montgomery Blackmon announces her death. Alma entered into rest on Thursday.
Alma is survived by her daughter, Brenda Blackmon Wood; her son-in-law, Keith; and her two granddaughters, Kristen and Kandis.
Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at the Oakwood Memorial Gardens with Royal Funeral Home directing.

Published by AL.com (Huntsville) on Jun. 14, 2009.
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Memories and Condolences
for Alma Blackmon

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I did not have the opportunity to sing under Sis. Blackmon. However, her legacy speaks for itself. She was a passionate believer in reverent music in the House of God. Her immense contribution for the Kingdom of Heaven and the Gospel of Jesus Christ is not forgotten. We hold firm to the Blessed Hope. "...........For the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be...........

..

David Liddell

Student

March 21, 2020

To Brenda, Keith, Kristen and Kandis:

I have come to write today clearly at the direction of the Holy Spirit. I am a resident of Indianapolis, IN and a former resident of Atlanta. I met Dr. Blackmon in Atlanta while a member of Ben Hill United Methodist Church. On two occasions, Ben Hill's Sanctuary Choir participated in concerts/festivals/workshops presented by Dr. Blackmon. Oh, how I cherish those experiences... The legendary Dr. Alma Blackmon and the great admiration and respect held by us all for her, including our conductors and musicians, Dr. Uzee Brown, Dr. Kay Pace, and Mr. Luther Washington. Since I left Atlanta in 1996, I have lived in Chicago and now Indianapolis. I am currently Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Music for All, a national presenter of events and programs for high school bands and orchestras. Just yesterday, I was "spanked" by my 82 year old mother for not having actively joined and involved myself with a church family here in Indianapolis. (I've been here for 6 years...spanking deserved.) I explain to friends and family that I just can't find the combination of the teaching of the gospel and celebration of God's word through music that I desire and need. Today, I attended a major luncheon in Indianapolis called "Start with Art." an event that brings together the city's artist, business, and governmental communities to annually celebrate the start of the new arts season. It's a special celebration and our "keynote" presenter was one Angela Brown, opera soprano (a native of Indianapolis and graduate of Oakwood College). When she spoke (really...testified) about the arts and her experiences in this city, at Oakwood and around the globe, she made and revived that musical and spiritual/musical connection that I have not had since my time in Atlanta (and Chicago). I was so inspired that I immediately returned to my office and Goggled – "Alma Blackmon music" where upon I learned of her passing. I have taken this time to give you my history and to tell you what you already know...Alma Blackmon touched and inspired lives and still does so in the most genuine and sincere way....so much so, that when Angela Brown talked about that special place for great music, even with the spoken word might not be what you desire....my mind and heart went back to those days in Atlanta and those moments when Dr. Alma Blackmon ministered to, inspired and gave hope to me. God bless you all and thank you for sharing Alma Blackmon with all of us.

Eric Martin

September 3, 2009

Going to miss the Christmas Letters that made me a part of the Woods/Blackmon family...It was always a blessing to receive one it made you laugh cry and call friends,Sharing blessings was her and your specialty!

Paula McPhail

August 10, 2009

Brenda, Keith, Kristen and Kandis

“A Shelter In The Time Of Storm”

For decades Dr Blackmon provided a safe haven for not only many troubled youth and young adults but anyone who came within her path. Her selfless love and compassion were the foundation of her strength. Her musical talents were unsurpassed and have been planted in tens of thousands. Though she sleeps, her musical genius sings, plays, performs and speaks through the lives of many. Be of good courage! For if we are faithful, we will see her again in the Earth made New and ALL may join in her Heavenly choir.

Blessings and Strength in your hours of loss.

With all our Love,

Nathan, Robbin, Lauren, Nathan II & Kelli

Nathan L Lewis MD

July 23, 2009

My prayers remain with you and your family as you mourn your loss. Til we meet again on the other shore, keep God first always. Eddress Blaylock, Grand Prairie, Tx

June 26, 2009

My dear Brenda and family:

Today I could not get Alma off my mind. I called her number several weeks ago and left a message with the caregiver, but did not get an update on her condition at that time.

I remember all the pleasant conversations Alma and I had through the years and I can never thank you enough for introducing me to this wonderful lady. I looked forward to her Christmas letters each year.

Brenda, you have always been so special to me. I will never forget your comforting telephone calls when John died. Alma added many of my friends to the circle of cancer patients she encouraged. She was a blessing to all who knew her and she certainly meant the world to me. What a legacy she leaves.

God bless and keep you all.

With much love and sympathy, Jean

Jean Bridges

June 26, 2009

Dear Sis. Brenda and Dr. Keith Woods and daughters:
There are millions of roads of life that the teeming multitudes traverse; each of us must travel one of them.The gifts of Sis. Alma Blackmon in her music has made the rough road and times easier by the lubrication of God's music applied in our hearts to ease the pains we suffer from life's cruel blows. The cheering music has left us better prepared to share that cheer. We relish the memories of Sis. Blackmon and the Aolians from the 70s and 80s.

God be with you all.

The Chester Mack Family, Killeen, TX

Chester Mack

June 25, 2009

Dear Brenda and Keith, I was saddened to learn of Alma's death. My condolences to you and the girls.

Robert Avery

June 24, 2009

I was very sorry to hear of Alma's passing. I have many fond memories of her, as do many I'm sure. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. I will continue to keep the family in prayer. (YOUR babysitter)

Florence Williams

June 24, 2009

Death hurts so bad, we all know that it is a part of life but it never is easy. I am so sorry for your lost. However, we know as believers that she is sleep and will be full of life again. Remember the good times, the lessons that she has taught you over the years and most of all remember the love that she showered you with. I pray that you will have peace and comfort that only the Lord can give, this is my prayer for you all.

Monika Laird

June 20, 2009

Dear Brenda, and Keith, "Ma" will be greatly missed by ALL of her Aeolian children. I know that you have wonderful memories to hold on to. I will always cherish the times spent on the bus tours and rehearsals. Your family will be in my prayers.
Debora Word Mosby

Debora Word-Mosby

June 19, 2009

My deepest prayers to the Blackmon family, I know that God will comfort you in your time of need.

Celeta

June 19, 2009

Dear Brenda and Keith,
While I know this is a time of great sadness for you and your family, I wanted you to know how much your mom influenced me in the short time I knew her in Memphis. No, that's not quite right. Her Christmas letters continued to be a highlight of my holiday season in the ensuing years.

Please accept my warmest thoughts and prayers for you all. Love, Jeannie

Jean McLarty

June 18, 2009

Dear Brenda, Keith, Kristen and Kandis,
Your mother and grandmother will be so missed by our family. We have so many precious memories of her as we know you do. Let these memories and the Love of Jesus keep you through this very difficult time.

Anthony and Helen Murphy

June 18, 2009

Dear Keith, Brenda, Kristen and Kandis,
"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal".
author unknown
My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time of grief. Ma will be greatly missed but her love and care for you and all of us lives on. I was blessed just having the opportunity to be there with you during this past weekend and to have learnt from her as a student and choir member. Some of her legacy lives in me and I cannot begin to imagine how much of her lives in each of you. Just to reflect on the tribute from Kristen and Kandis it brought tears to my eyes when I thought of how proud she would have been….it made me proud also – (I felt her presence and heard her counsel in them). She left her mark with them also.

My prayers are with you during this new and unfamiliar stage in your life…. Be encouraged and comforted for God really dose care.

May your memories bring you comfort.

Valerie London

June 17, 2009

Ma Blackmon will be greatly missed. I will always cherish my days as part of the Aeolians. My sincerest condolences and deepest sympathies are extended to the family.

Marque Duncan

June 16, 2009

I will truly miss Dr. Blackmon. Although she was closer to my late father Roger, and I only knew her for a short time, she and I still had a special relationship. It was as if we'd known each other for years. The last time we spoke was at the Annual Quartet Festival at New Hope Church in February. We had a great time. She will truly be missed. I know that one day we'll see her again!

Neale Davis

June 16, 2009

Dear Keith, Brenda, Kristen and Kandis,

I never thought I would be writing this so soon: since it was Mom and you all that was there for me almost 10 years ago when I lost my Mother. Wenda called me on Sabbath, June 6th and left me the news on my cell phone and I wish it could have been possible to attend the service that day. Since my move to California in 2007, I have lost contact with everyone in Atlanta but you all have been in my thoughts along with BCF. I have missed the regular contacts and counsel of Mom and the trips we made over the years I lived in Atlanta. I can image how you may feel but I know that God makes no mistakes and will comfort and keep you all through the grieving process. Alma always knew that God uses people because she was used throughout her life and He surely used your family and her in my grief. I am unable to be there in person but I will keep you all in my prayers and thoughts.

Debra M Powell

June 15, 2009

I always wondered why after all these years I felt as though I knew Dr. Blackmon. I remembered her choir singing at the ACHE festival in Alabama when I was a student at Stillman. All of the HBCU choirs from Alabama were there but the choir we talked about every year was Oakwood. Well, I found myself at the funeral and after learning about Ms. Blackmon through family and friends, I understand now. She was simply an angel who touched each life that came in contact with her. Ironically, I was asked to serve as pallbearer at the end of the funeral. No one there knew me but somehow I was allowed this opportunity to say goodbye to a person I've admired for so many years.

Bruce Thompson

June 15, 2009

I went to school with Alma Blackmon at UAH, instantly loved her and continue to cherish those memories 30 years later. Very few leave such an impact.
Another gift from God.

Chris Culpepper

June 15, 2009

The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.

Kenneth Forde

June 15, 2009

I would like to extend my condolences to all of Dr Blackmon's family. My prayers are with you. I was very saddened by the news of her death. I've had the good fortune of conversing with her just 2 weeks prior to her death. I'm so thankful to have known her and worked with her. What a gift she was to us all who knew her and loved her!

Nerva Altino

Nerva Altino

June 15, 2009

We pray that God would give the family strength, courage and hope as you go through this difficult time. The Lord is very near right now and very soon, not long, you all will reunite with Alma.

May she rest in Jesus as she awaits the soon return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Paul, Dianne, Jason & Kevin Saint-Elie

Paul & Dianne Saint-Elie

June 15, 2009

I was very inspired by the service and the times I was able to enjoy the beautiful music of the Aeolians. The example of Dr. Blackmon's life will always be with us and it will definitly inspire me to always pass on the blessings I have received to help others.

Judy Nealy Sanchez & Family

June 15, 2009

I was saddened to hear of Ma Blackmon's transition. I was so fortunate to sing in the Joyful Sound Choir at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit under her direction. I loved the beautiful music that she taught us week after week. She was so faithful and dedicated to the choir even when she wasn't feeling well. That was so inspirational. She was so funny. She always had a story to tell about her family or travel adventures. She made me a better musician and a better person just by her presence.

Thank you Brenda, Keith, Kristen and Kandis for sharing your mother and grandmother with us. She was truly as remarkable woman of God.

Toney Lawrence

June 15, 2009

Ms.Blackmon's music and directorship over the Aoleins motivated my dreams of going to Oakwood to sing. I was awed by her presence.She will be greatly missed.

B. French

June 14, 2009

Alma lifted the hearts of many with her words of encouragement and hope. I knew her through the correspondances she shared with me and others as we fight our personal battle with cancer. I hope to see her one day when our Lord returns to claim His own. May God bless the members of her family and comfort you.

Martha Askew

June 14, 2009

I came to know Keith and Brenda as a child growing up in Memphis, TN. They're family was always a source of joy then and even in my thoughts today. Alma Blackmon was one of the first musical giants I ever knew. I remember her smile and warm hugs growing up on Sabbaths in Memphis. She was a class act and her legacy is unmatched. My regard for history, my reverence for choral church music and the spiritual I owe in no small part to the life and work of Alma Blackmon. My heart goes out to the entire Woods family. Our prayers are with you. She will be missed, but her legacy lives on...

D FORDJOUR

June 14, 2009

Brenda and Family,
It's been twenty-five years since I left Oakwood and my last memories are of being on the Black Sea in Romania with swimsuits on while touring with your mother. I certainly pray that with you and I, we may all stand on the sea of glass. May God sustain you in this great loss.

Renee' Spivey-Norwood

June 14, 2009

Brenda, Keith, Kandis and Kristen,

I want to express my deep sorrow at the passing of your mom, mother-in-law and grandma. She touched many lives and will be remembered fondly by all who knew her well. I am glad I got the opportunity to know her and to be among her many children. May memories of your time with her bring you comfort and solace in the days ahead.

O.C. Class of '77

Dr. Dennis Alexander

June 14, 2009

What a blessing to have known Alma Blackmon! I can't wait until that day when we will all meet again, where there will be no more sorrow or pain or parting. Much love and prayer- Cleveland and Carol Simons Williams and Family

Cleveland and Carol Williams

June 14, 2009

My prayers are with the family.
Your Mom obviously touched my cousin, Debora, in a very special way.

Elicia Jackson

June 14, 2009

Hi, Brenda:
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. As I was speaking to my mother (Vivian) yesterday, she indicated that your mom had died on Thursday, and that she was watching the funeral on TV while my dad (Otto) was watching from the computer. ...Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, Keith and family.

Warmest wishes, and stay strong.

DeVon Stokes

June 14, 2009

On behalf of the Guild of Adventist Musicians, I wish to express condolences on the passing of Alma Blackmon. I am thankful that we had the opportunity to honor her for her years of service while she was still alive. Thanks be to God for the legacy of musical gifts that she has left behind.

Jeanette Nelson

June 14, 2009

Dear Keith and Brenda,

We are sorry to hear about the passing of Alma. We regret that we were not able to attend the funeral because we are still out of the country. We pray that the Lord will sustain you during this difficult moment.

Danielle and Elysee

Elysee Saint-Elie

June 14, 2009

Thank you for sharing your Mom, and I glad I had the opportunity to encounter her gift that she so freely shared.

With sympathy,

Melinda Fowler

Melinda Fowler

June 14, 2009

Dr. Keith and Ms. Brenda,

I was truely sadden after hearing of your Mom's passing. She was an inspiration to so many, both young and old. The world, in general, and the Adventist denomination, in particular, will never be the same. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Tony Hayes

June 14, 2009

The service was absolutely lovely for such a lovely person. Thank you so much for sharing your mother.

Anne Collins Smith

June 13, 2009

Dear Brenda, Keith, Kristen and Kandis:
Having just returned from the beautiful Homecoming Celebration that you had for Mrs. Blackman on Saturday, I just had to let you know how moved and impressed I was with the service. I have fond memories of Mrs. Blackman from when she lived in Washington, D.C. and was a co-worker of my mother. She was also the one that inspired me to start taking piano and organ lessons. Although, she will be greatly missed, I hope that you can take comfort in knowing that she is now directing that special heavenly choir! Thank you so very much for allowing us to experience such a beautiful service. Please know that you will all continue to be in our prayers.

Percita Ellis

June 13, 2009

God will keep you

Greg Clemons

June 13, 2009

DEAR BRENDA AND FAMILY MAY GOD COMFORT YOU AS ONLY HE CAN . I ONLY GOT TO SEE MRS BLACKMON ONE TIME .AT A CONCERT AT B'S.ADVENT CHURCH . THE GOINES FAMILY WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

ANN GOINES

June 13, 2009

I remember Dr.Alma Blackmon surprising the music world with the excellence of her ability while she was still a local church choir director with the DuPont Park SDA Church in Washington, D.C. That choir was invited to perform at many notable events around the country including appearing at the Washington National Cathedral. I was a member of that choir. The world has lost a great musician and dedicated Christian. May she rest 'til called by Christ "On That Great Gettin' Up Mornin'".

Leonard Nelson

June 13, 2009

To The Blackmon Family

My sincerest sympathies on the passing of our dear sister
Alma Blackmon. Her contribution at Berean SDA has always been inspirational.

Elva Brown Coakley

June 13, 2009

Dear Brenda,Keith, Kristen and Kandis, I was saddened to hear about the passing of Ma Blackmon. My memories of her will always be with me from the trips and our days at Oakwood. I always looked forward to seeing and talking to her each Alumni weekend and my family was so uplifted by her prayer circle and newsletters during my son's struggle with cancer. We all look forward to seeing her when our Lord and Savior return for his faithful children.

Our Love to you All,

Tony

Anthony Greene

June 13, 2009

To the Blackmon Family:

I am grateful that I had to opportunity to experience the many musical presentations directed by Dr. Blackmon.
With sympathy

Nancy Sims

June 13, 2009

Truly a great woman who will be sorely missed. My prayers go to the Woods family and all who were touched by her gift from God.

Gladys Ann Foster

June 13, 2009

Dear Brenda,Keith, Kristen and Kandis,
This world has lost a beloved soul. We look forward to seeing her one day leading the Heavenly Choir (or at least accompanying it!)Our prayers are with each of you. May your memories of Alma and your assurance of the Lord's soon return bring you comfort.

Love, from her "creampuff"

Shelly (Taylor) van Zyl

June 13, 2009

Brenda and Keith, my heart goes out to you at this time. I always enjoyed reading your mother's beautiful holiday update letters that she sent to my parents; missed receiving it in 2008. As you are walking through this 'valley,' please know that "there will be a better day." I look forward to hearing "Ma" direct again in heaven. Much love and prayers to you and your family.

Debbe Millet

June 13, 2009

Love to Brenda & Family. We are among Alma's oldest friends when she and her sister Micky took Wash.DC by storm as musicians. Shirley and I will miss Alma for her talents for persistence and perfection. Love, Peter & Shirley McGalliaria,Jr.

June 13, 2009

On behalf of my parents, Pastor & Mrs. Kenneth E. Forde and my sisters, Darlene Billingy-Forde, Barbara-Gene Browne-Forde and myself, I wish to express our sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of Mrs. Blackmon. Her life was surely a blessing. She has left worlds for us to remember. Thank you for sharing her.

Dianne Richardson

June 13, 2009

Our deepest sympathies on the loss of a long time friend.

Allen & Mary

Allen Breach

June 13, 2009

Rejoice in this hope...Those of our people who have die wil live again! Their bodies will come back to life. All those sleeping in their graves will wake up and sing for joy. As the sparkling dew refreshes the earth, so the Lord will revive those who have long been dead. Isaiah 26:19

Francis

June 13, 2009

Always prepared, Alma Blackmon inspired us to sing with spirit and understanding. Her gift was more than directing and performing; it was her interpretation of music. In addition to such talent was her genuine relationship with God, which her testimonies and deeds revealed. What a teacher, what a person!

Our love and condolences to the family.

Iva Parks Wilson & Husband

June 13, 2009

Brenda, Keith, Kristen, and Kandis,
I will miss Alma very much. She was a wonderful woman and I am so glad I got to know her. My prayers are with you.
Love, nancy g

nancy goodrich

June 13, 2009

I am deeply sadden by the news of Dr. Mrs Alma Blackmon. She was a mother to many Students at Oakwood as I witnessed many calling her,"MA". Her Legacy etched my mind will be forever musical Excellence. Having speht time in her home, practising for Sabbath service, with a male grtoup from Philadelphia Pa. I really appreciated her input into the group's rendition.I am deeply grateful that I came to know her. She has Nurtured my Son with her gifts of love and pratical life skills. My memories will be forever happy ones of Mrs. Blackmon. I will keep the famkily in my prayers. God blessed me for having known her. Thank you Lord for the Blessing of having known Mrs. Blackmon. Continuue to bless this family Lord comfort them in this hour of of sadness.

RENT A BASS M. Monk 3re

June 13, 2009

I was so very sad to learn of Alma's passing. What an amazing lady she was! I will never forget how she made me feel like I was the most important person in the world, even if she hadn't seen me for years! I always felt loved when I was around her. And Christmas will never be the same without that letter! :) There is a big hole in this world without her, and I can only say how thankful I am that Jesus is coming soon so we will see her again!

My love to you, Brenda and Keith, Kristen and Kandis. And my prayers!

Becky Carpenter

June 13, 2009

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