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Arthur Blackstock Obituary
April 29, 1963 - June 18, 2023
Dr. Arthur William Blackstock, Jr. passed away on Sunday, June 18, 2023, at the age of 60. On April 29, 1963, he was born to Anna Jane and Arthur William Blackstock, Sr. in Eden, N.C. He grew up in nearby Madison and Stoneville, and his parents taught in public schools. Awarded a George Foster Hankins Scholarship, he attended Wake Forest University, where he belonged to Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity and played French horn in marching, concert, and pep bands. After receiving a bachelor's degree in biology, he earned his medical degree from East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine. He completed residency and a fellowship at University of North Carolina School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, where he won the national award for best research by a resident in radiation oncology.
In 1996, William joined the Department of Radiation Oncology at Wake Forest Baptist Health (now Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist) as a clinician and a professor of radiation oncology and cancer biology. He served as department chairperson from 2008 until his death, one of the first African-American chairpersons in his field. From 2022-2023, he also served as interim director of the hospital's Comprehensive Cancer Center, at the same time he was undergoing chemotherapy treatments for metastatic prostate cancer.
William's areas of clinical expertise were gastrointestinal and lung cancer, and he believed that working with cancer patients was a privilege. His patients expressed appreciation and admiration for his medical expertise and bedside manner; they found him compassionate, encouraging, and easy to talk with and understand.
At the same time, William was a nationally recognized researcher. He led numerous Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials that examined novel drugs and treatment approaches in combination with radiation therapy, resulting in some of the current practices in cancer treatment. In addition, he published over 100 academic journal articles and book chapters. He served on councils and steering committees at the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute, as well as on editorial boards for several medical journals. A strong advocate for health equity, he took the most pride in his research and a resulting publication investigating social determinants of health for African-Americans with lung cancer.
William especially enjoyed traveling world-wide and taking family vacations in Saint John. He loved cooking, entertaining, going all out for holidays, and spending time with his family, especially at his mountain home in Banner Elk. He continued living fully and working until a week before his death, not wanting to complain or worry others during his extended illness. He is survived by his daughters Jessica Blackstock (Logan) and Ansley Blackstock (Jiri), and granddaughter Bryn Blackstock, all of Winston-Salem; his mother Anna Jane Blackstock, sisters Pam Blackstock and Sandra Blackstock, brother Michael Blackstock (Nomvelo), nephew Keith Blackstock, and niece Elise Blackstock. He also took delight in sharing a bulldog, Biscuit, with his daughter Ansley, and taking treats to Jessica's horse Levi.
A celebration of life is being planned, in accordance with William's wishes for a party instead of a funeral. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or the Cancer Patient Support Program at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Arthur Blackstock
Charles Scarantino
June 13, 2025
Arthur always brought his smile with him regadless of the situation. I will always miss him and never stop thinking of him, from the time I was introduced to him at ECU at the Rad Onc Department.
Thank you for the memories Arthur,
Chuck
Darren Casonhua, JD
September 4, 2024
I just learned today that William transitioned just over a year ago. I am at a loss for words. My mind takes me back to the early 2000s when I would invite him to attend lung cancer expert retreats on Martha Vineyard over a 2-3 period of time. I remember him asking me, "I'm not sure why you invited me to participate in this retreat?" My response to him was simply, "because you matter, and you belong with this group of experts." I found William to be as everyone finds him, humble, smart, curious, genuine, humorous, and a pleasure to be around. A. William Blackstock, Jr, MD was a good man...he mattered.
Suzanne
June 18, 2024
Still cant believe it a year later, but he still lives in our thoughts and hears.
David Raben
June 15, 2024
I miss William terribly - the sparkle in his eyes, the kindness in his heart and the graciousness in his manner. As an oncologist, I always looked to hear what William had to say as his insights we always prescient. I think of William often and the gifts he brought to this chaotic world we live in. I use my memory of him and how he conducted himself to guide how I am living my life - with an eye towards living in the moment. I remember him telling me a few years back he just wanted to be out on his boat when he retired fishing and living simply. That sounds pretty good to me. Much love to his family and to his spirit and his soul.
Michael Kotarba
April 19, 2024
Heartbroken to hear this today. Dr Blackstock was my doctor for Stage 4 cancer I caught in 2018. This amazing man gave me hope when I had none! I will NEVER forget all he did for me. Rest in peace brother....
Mike Kotarba
Dr. Kathy McKenzie Mitiku
October 26, 2023
Met this remarkable man when my 31 yo son was facing stage 4 mastscyzied esophageal cancer. He encouraged us to stay strong and things would be good.
Terri Sullivan Hayes
July 16, 2023
Prayers and Blessings for the Family. William was a great friend from the 6th grade through Madison Mayodan High School 1981 graduation. What a joy he was. In his career, such accomplishments he made in the Medical Research, Cancer, and Oncology society. What a better world this is with William's contributions. Proud and honored to have known him and follow his accomplishments for many years. Til we meet again...Rest in Peace.
David Raben
July 14, 2023
I want to take a moment to offer my thoughts regarding my dear friend and colleague in the Radiation Oncology world It has taken me sometime to process this loss and it has left me feeling more vulnerable in this world. William joined the Radiation Oncology department around the time my father was stepping down as Chair. He was a man of compassion, conviction, wisdom and and deep insights around cancer research and care of the patient - someone I could always call or have a drink with and ask for advice on life and career. William contributed greatly to our field and garnered tremendous respect across oncology circles. On a personal note he would often attend soccer games at Wake Forest with my wife and I to see my son and daughter play, knowing absolutely nothing about the beautiful game yet always bringing enthusiasm and cheer - those were special times. He was so gracious and so humble and simply stated..he just always made me feel good about myself and life. I admired him, enjoyed science discussions with him, laughed with him, and LOVED being with him - I will miss him dearly ..very very dearly. Goodbye my friend and I am grateful to have been part of your life.
Ron & Chris Nichols
July 7, 2023
Our condolences to his family. He was a remarkable man and a fantastic doctor
Clifford Makins
June 28, 2023
An extremely learned man. I will miss him greatly. In our one time office visit, he had a profound effect in my life, a true connection.
-Clifford Makins, Patient
Ann Joyner
June 27, 2023
We send our condolences, love and prayers to the Blackstock family.
Gay Wyche
June 27, 2023
Dr Blackstock was my Oncology Radiologist in 2006. He was amazed that I didn't have any nausea until the end of my 5 weeks of treatment. I am so happy to be one of my his success stories for stomach cancer.
Charles M. Able
June 26, 2023
My deepest sympathy for the Blackstock family.
William was and will always be an inspiration to me. As one of the one of the only Black physicist on faculty in radiation oncology at the Wake Forest Cancer Center, I was able to observe Dr. Blackstock navigate the intricacies of politics, medicine, and research challenges while providing world class clinical care for his patients. I was in a unique position to understand the effort, skill, and intellect he was gifted with. He was a tough and direct leader when necessary. He was always fair and generous with his time and in providing opportunities for advancement. He demanded a lot from his team and was driven to be the best.
He will be missed. Medicine has lost a true warrior in the fight against cancer and the world has lost a great man. God bless you A. William Blackstock.
Rita C. lowe
June 25, 2023
Praying for comfort during this time. William was a pleasant and kind person that will always remember. Pam, your mother, brother and sister we will continue to keep you in our prayers. The Crutchfield Family of Madison, NC. R
Tonya Lowe McAdoo
June 25, 2023
William and I went to middle school and high scohool together. The Lowe family is praying for your family during this time of sorrow. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Paul N. Milton
June 23, 2023
I am praying for you all. Pamela is a dear friend, so the entire family is certainly in my Prayers!!! God bless you, now and always!!!
Pat Kiley
June 23, 2023
My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He was very much admired and loved by his oncology colleagues. He will be greatly missed. My fondest memories are evenings out at ASCO with William and UNC colleagues.
Chuck Matthews, MD
June 22, 2023
Here in Texas and just heard.. Feeling deep sadness and emptiness that My Mentor, my Friend, has passed on. There are no words for what this man has done for my life and others. He had a direct hand in so many of us young physicians becoming radiation oncologists... THANK YOU, William, for reaching back and bringing us along your amazing journey. Your Legacy will live on.. Thank you....
Del Jones
June 22, 2023
I had the privilege of working with Dr. Blackstock. He always had a smile on his face and I was so proud to see an African American in his position. You have my deepest sympathy and prayers. I know you will truly miss him.
Del Jones
Michael Ginsberg
June 22, 2023
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of Dr. Blackstock. I recruited leaders for Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and Wake Forest School of Medicine from 2018-2023. Dr. Blackstock served on a number of my search committees. I always found him incredibly impressive and down to earth, with a great sense of humor and a clear love of his important work. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
Wanda Burney
June 22, 2023
To the Blackstock Family,
I feel so deeply saddened at the loss of this jewel of a doctor and a true man. We met through a special patient support program began at what is now Atrium Health with the Amazing Doctors E.Shaw and W.Blackstock at the helm...i can only imagine how much he is and will be missed in so many realms and on so many levels. His compassion and brilliance, unrivaled, i consider this a major loss to the Medical field...i can only imagine the void for you, his family. May The Lord of Peace and His Spirit rest, rule and abide with you now, and especially in the days and months to come as you make this challenging adjustment to such a great loss to you, the Medical Center and this community.
With Prayers,
Wanda Burney, former Medical Social Worker - Winston-Salem
R.D. Settle
June 22, 2023
Well done thy good and faithful servant for you shall wear a crown in that glorious day of redemption! Dr. Blackstock was a "true southern gentlemen" and inspiration as he walked the halls of the Cancer Center.
I am thankful for this incredible man of wisdom and solider.
My deepest condolences to the Blackstock family.
Margie Moore
June 22, 2023
So sorry to hear of your loss Pam. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ronda Francis
June 22, 2023
You will be missed, very much so Dr. Blackstock.
Kevin Allred
June 22, 2023
So sorry to hear of William´s passing. He was a high school classmate and fellow band member. He was a genuinely nice guy , very intelligent and versatile. He was a bright spot for our small hometown community and we were lucky to have had the opportunity to know him. He was very accomplished in his profession and had a wonderful loving family. We will sorely miss his presence. May God forever watch over him and his family.
Jim Naves
June 22, 2023
I am shocked and terribly saddened to hear of William's passing. I knew him as a medical student at ECU and later as a friend and colleague at WFU. His friendship and contributions to the world will be sorely missed, but fondly remembered.
Olivia Dianne Penn, Madison,NC
June 22, 2023
so very to loose another young, gifted, and centered cousin. Your sorrow is shared. May God keep your family strong. Love, Olivia Dianne Penn
Alycia S. Smith
June 22, 2023
When my mom was being treated at the cancer center, Dr. Blackstock found out they were both from Eden. He would randomly show up at her appointments to check on her even when he wasn't her provider. It meant so much to her. RIP Dr. Blackstock.
Chuck Scarantino
June 22, 2023
William-
You will be missed. Your infectious laugh and smile.
You were one of the very good guys.
Cobbins Family
June 21, 2023
Dr. Blackstock served as an influential mentor for underrepresented aspiring healthcare professionals. His wisdom and encouragement will forever be instilled within those he has encountered, as he positively impacted diversity in medicine. The Blackstock family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Ballenger
June 21, 2023
I am so sorry for your loss. The news was and is shocking and very sad. We met when we trained at UNC, with my first year being William´s fellowship year. More recently we have shared more patients as we were geographically closer. Prayers for peace for the family. Dr. Blackstock´s legacy will continue in our field of radiation oncology and through his beloved family.
St. John United Methodist Church Eden, NC Joe Hout Pastor
June 21, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Taofeek Owonikoko
June 21, 2023
To the family, my sincere hope that you find comfort in your fond memories of him. He was a gentle and caring person. May he find comfort and peace in death.
Sherry Snow Wells
June 21, 2023
I had the privilege and honor of working with Dr Blackstock since he came on staff @ wake in 1996. I always thought of him not just as a colleague and co worker but considered him a friend. RIP my dear friend , you will be greatly missed and I will see you on the other side
Teresa Dampier
June 21, 2023
Jessica, Your Daddy was so nice when he came in Bookmarks. He loved buying gift cards for Bryn so she could go on a shopping spree! Thinking of you all.
Keith Joyce
June 21, 2023
So sorry To hear about William, I went to school with William and Michael played in the band together, again so sorry to hear prayers to the family , so sorry Michael prayers brother RIP
Jim Urbanic
June 21, 2023
Friend, mentor, colleague, a good guy. glass of white wine in hand and asking "you good"... in a way that you clearly new he wasn't sure and actually really cared. gone way to soon. RIP my friend..
Lisa
June 21, 2023
My deepest condolences to Dr. Blackstock´s family he was such a wonderful doctor and specially a beautiful person he treated me with radiation years ago during my cancer journey and was always do caring and a great listener I know he´ll be missed by not only his family and colleagues but his patience´s as well ! Prayers for you all in the days ahead
Kathy Coble
June 21, 2023
Dr. Blackstock treated my husband for Lung Cancer in 2016. He was a remarkable person and very caring Dr. My husband beat his cancer. May he rest is peace.
Hugo Jimenez
June 21, 2023
May the love of friends, family, and cherished memories provide support during this time of grief.
David Baker
June 21, 2023
A true friend in our Class 1981
No continues to fly high as Falcons do.
Roger Ove
June 21, 2023
You will be missed William. You made the world a better place.
Beverly Ingram
June 21, 2023
Dr Blackstock was my lung doctor and boss for many years in radiation oncology department. He will truly be missed.
Oabowlesjr
June 21, 2023
So very sorry to hear of the loss of a wonderful man, Doctor and friend to many . Condolence to all. He took care of me and my family when I was also fighting cancer. There are many people that have him to thank for their life. Prayers
Gloria Mckiver
June 21, 2023
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Suzanne
June 21, 2023
Dear Jessica and Ansley,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad and am and so saddened by the loss of a long time friend. The world is definitely not the same without him and he will be missed by many. Please check his phone for a great picture of your dad and Biscuit that I texted him. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. You were the world to him.
Denise StJames
June 20, 2023
My Heartfelt Condolences to my family during this sad occasion may we find comfort in knowing that he lived and loved life and we remember all the wonderful memories
Deborah Matthews
June 20, 2023
Rev. Pamela Blackstock sorry to hear about your brother pray that God will bless your family and bring comfort. To the family know that God is always with you look to him and be strong.
Deborah Matthews
Pleasant Hill UMC
Pastor Rev. Isaac Nedd Jr.
Greg and Barbie Brown
June 20, 2023
Enjoyed reading about you dear brother Pam. Greg and I are sending you and your family prayers and hugs.
Reggie Munden, MD
June 20, 2023
So sorry to hear this news. William was a great friend and colleague. We knew each other for 20 years and I am lucky to have worked with him for 5 yrs at Wake. He will be missed. All our prayers for his family.
John and Christine Petrick
June 20, 2023
To the family, you meant alot to him. We met him as he was my husband's Dr. He did radiation and your dad was his doctor. We didnt always talk treatment, we talked about family sometimes, he was very proud of his girls. Know that he will be looking down on you all. We will be missed by all of us patients.
Travis and Martha Malloy
June 20, 2023
Sending prayers for the family, that God's Grace and Mercy sustain you today and in all the days to come.
Travis and Martha Malloy, Kinston NC
W Robert Lee
June 20, 2023
William and I came to Wake Forest about the same time. I miss our conversations on each other's back porches.
It should be noted that William passed on Father's Day.
I am reminded of the quote from General MacArthur
"By profession, I am a soldier and take great pride in that fact. But I am prouder, infinitely prouder, to be a father. A soldier destroys in order to build. The father only builds, never destroys."
As I remember William it is this role that he exemplified so well. He loved his family and friends. He was a builder and has left a grand legacy.
RIP and Godspeed my friend
Pam Robbins (wife of Mike Robbins)
June 20, 2023
Dr.Blackstock and my husband Mike Robbins, were colleagues at WFBMC. Mike thought very highly of William and enjoyed his intelligence, sense of humor and concern for his patients. I also was lucky to meet William on many occasions. He was a wonderful man. He will be missed and my heart goes out to his family. It is a terrible loss.
Phyllis Wilson Von Ebers
June 20, 2023
William, I can´t believe you´re gone. I enjoyed getting to know you in school and in band and going to A Presidential Classroom in DC. You were brilliant. My prayers and condolences to all of your family and loved ones. Rest in Peace, my friend.
Ji Lee
June 20, 2023
I remember one day in the physician workroom, you said to me "I think of my residents as my family. When I go to conferences and run into my former residents, I am reminded of how proud I am to have them represent Wake Forest Radiation Oncology." Dr. Blackstock, we were so fortunate and grateful to have had you as our chair. This is a huge loss for us but his legacy will live on through our remembering and honoring him through our work.
To the Blackstock family, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. But I know the Blackstock girls have been and will be resilient in these difficult times. We are here for you if you need anything.
With heartfelt condolences, JL
Cheryl Malloy
June 20, 2023
William was always a kind and brilliant person. Will truly be miss. #M&M Highschool #Band!
Karen Fritz
June 20, 2023
William, you will be missed so very much. It was my pleasure to have known you and to have worked with you over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Michele Harmon
June 20, 2023
I count it a pleasure to have crossed paths with Dr. Blackstock. He always took the time to answer questions or provide the necessary documentation for our research patients. I will always remember his smile and laugh. A life well lived.
DeLee Anderson Mabe
June 20, 2023
I was introduced to this family during our years attending the M&M school system. I recently had the pleasure of meeting Ansley in WS while she was babysitting for my grandchild. A very special family and a great physician who served his fellow man. Sending many prayers for peace and comfort.
DeLee Anderson Mabe
Kimberly Babb
June 20, 2023
Sending great love and joy in William"s memory across the miles to the entire Black stock and Melton families in this time of sadness and loss. We mourn his passing, but celebrate his legacy of love for his family and patients. Love, cousins Kim and Thomas
Matt Manning, MD, Cone Health
June 20, 2023
William made a significant contribution to oncology and radiation oncology as a leader in research and education. He was highly respected as a clinician and as an academic leader. I was privileged to collaborate with him clinically and on behalf of our mutual specialty, radiation oncology.
Kim Sweat
June 20, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed working with Dr Blackstock. He always called me by my first and last name. He will be missed. Prayers for comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Dexter W. Welch Jr.
June 20, 2023
My most sincere condolences to your entire family during this time of loss.
So glad to know that Arthur lived a very full life while pursuing his medical career.
The entire Blackstock family was always a pleasure to know while in school with them.
Continued prayers for strength and healing during this time.
Respectfully,
Dexter Welch
Nashville, TN.
615-243-1495 [email protected]
Dawn Morphies Stone
June 20, 2023
William and I went to school together. We were a close knit group. We all were in Miss Mabes AT class in middle school. William was so smart! He left a beautiful legacy. I hope I can come to the party. I am praying for your family. I love you all!
Roger Holland
June 20, 2023
I was a resident at Wake Forest in the Radiation Oncology Dept. during the first year that Dr. Blackstock joined the faculty there. He was always a mentor, colleague, friend, helpful influence and relatable to the residents. I am shocked and saddened by his loss, but celebrate his memory and legacy. It was an honor to have known him.
Robin Knight Graves
June 20, 2023
So sorry for y´all´s loss. I have fond memories of William when we were in the high school band marching and concert. William was a leader then and everyone looked up to him. This is truly a great loss for all. Thoughts and prayers for you all.
Helena Scales Eden,NC
June 19, 2023
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Ginger Dalton
June 19, 2023
Such a nice person. He will be fondly remembered.
Nathan Harris
June 19, 2023
Rest in Peace my brother.
Emily
June 19, 2023
We sure do have some wonderful memories.Especially St John memories.
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