David Ray Blackburn

David Ray Blackburn, of Frisco, Texas, passed away on January 11, 2025, at the age of 84. He was born on December 30, 1940, in Bay City, Texas, to John Merrol Blackburn and Irene Mae Weisman.
David grew up in a household of modest means and at age 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving honorably and advancing to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. While in uniform, he pursued and completed his higher education at the University of Maryland, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.
During his service in the U.S. Navy, David was stationed at bases around the world. In 1974, David's life forever changed when he met and married Asimina Fili, the love of his life, in Athens, Greece. David and Asimina began their family journey with the arrival of their daughter Vivian, followed by the births of their sons Spiros, Christopher, and David.
Following a distinguished 26 year career in the U.S. Navy. David retired and, together with his family, relocated to North Texas. In this new chapter, he embarked on a career with FEMA, where he played a role in responding to natural disasters and offering support to individuals in need.
Above all else, David was a devoted family man whose love for his wife and children defined his life. Their happiness was his greatest motivation and source of pride.
David will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His legacy will forever be one of strength, generosity, kindness, and unconditional love. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
David is survived by his beloved wife, Asimina Blackburn of Frisco, Texas; sons, Spiros Blackburn and wife, Kristen of Houston, Texas; David Blackburn and wife, Jessica of Plano, Texas; and Christopher Blackburn of Arlington, Texas; grandchildren, Leo Blackburn, Logan Blackburn, Emily Blackburn, Evie Blackburn and Zoey Blackburn; brother, Michael Blackburn of Houston, Texas; and a host of other loving family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Johnny Blackburn.
A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 27, 2024 at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 75211.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Sunday evening from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.