Melda Whittle Blackmar

1955 - 2024

Melda Whittle Blackmar

February 15, 1955 - January 13, 2024

Talbotton, Georgia - Melda Whittle Blackmar of Talbotton, GA, age 68, passed away on January 13, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born on February 15, 1955, in Columbus, GA, to the late James Howard Whittle and Azilee Russell Whittle.

Melda is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Knox Kendrick Blackmar of Talbotton, GA; son John Wright of Talbotton, GA; daughter Azilee Davis of Crestview, FL; sister Sondra Gazaway, Columbus, GA; brother Charles (Janet) Whittle of Midland, GA; sister Gloria (Jim) Hatfield of Midland,GA; best friend Lavon Collins of Waverly Hall, GA; eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Melda's life was marked by a myriad of talents and passions. In her early years, she worked alongside her father at Whittle's Watch Repair in downtown Columbus, repairing clocks and jewelry.

Her many careers included roles as a seamstress crafting baby bibs, a sheet metal mechanic creating IV poles and baby bassinets, and a tech in HVAC, specializing in ductwork. Melda was a dedicated member of the Waverly Hall Fire Department for 12 years, standing by her husband's side as they fought fires together. Later, she served an additional 4 years with the Talbotton Fire Department.

True to her maiden name (Whittle), she was drawn to the art of woodworking and woodturning, eventually joining the Columbus Woodworkers Guild. Melda's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish "Little Whittle's woodworking," where her creations were featured at numerous craft fairs over the years.

An avid reader, she read over 100 books annually. She was a published poet and won the International Poet of the Year award. In her later years, Melda indulged her passion for the arts by teaching herself to sketch and paint. She became skilled in all mediums, but watercolors were her favorite.

During the challenging times of the Covid pandemic, Melda tirelessly sewed hundreds of masks, collaborating with the CDC to ensure their safety for healthcare workers. These masks were generously donated to numerous healthcare facilities.

Melda Whittle Blackmar will be remembered for her unwavering strength, creativity, and dedication to our lord and savior, her friends, and family. She leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration.

A celebration of Melda's life will be held Friday, January 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. in the Edgewood Hall of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Columbus, GA. with Reverend Dan McMinn officiating. Interment to follow in Parkhill Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be one hour prior to the service.