Mary Lynn Blackwell

Mary “Lynn” Blackwell, 62, of Abingdon, Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, in Bristol, Tennessee after a lengthy illness surrounded by her loving family.

Lynn was born on June 2, 1963, in Marion, Virginia, to Sylvia Elzina Davenport Wheeless and Jerry Lee Wheeless in Marion, Virginia. She was the second of four children. She married Jeffrey Steven “Steve” Blackwell on October 18, 1979. Their family grew to include two sons and one daughter, Jeffrey, Jeremy, and Jennifer, and eight grandchildren. Lynn was a beloved wife, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her.

Lynn delighted in traveling, especially to the beach, and discovering new places. She loved the theatre, attending many shows at the Barter Theatre. She enjoyed music including singing karaoke with friends and attending concerts. She loved to garden, growing beautiful flowers adding natural beauty to her home and surroundings. She loved to entertain, hosting family gatherings that would make everyone smile, laugh, and enjoy life.

Lynn’s greatest joy was being surrounded by her grandchildren, showering them with love. A homemaker and beautician, Lynn’s heart was always with her family and friends—loving, nurturing, and caring for her loved ones. She was a faithful Christian and an active member of Highlands Fellowship, where she found joy in worship and fellowship.

Lynn was preceded in death by her mother, Sylvia Wheeless. She is survived by her devoted husband, Steve Blackwell, and her three loving children: Jeffrey Blackwell and his wife Kellie, along with their children Oliver, Tucker, Beckett, and Thatcher; Jeremy Blackwell and his wife Nancy, with their children Graham and Bella; and Jennifer Dye and her husband Ryan, with their sons James and John Parker. She is also survived by her father, Jerry Wheeless; her brother, Lee Wheeless; her sisters, Lesa Wheeless and Lora Powers; nieces Stephanie and Kaitlyn, nephews Anthony and Adam.

Lynn will be remembered for her loving spirit, kind heart, and the joy she brought to every gathering. Her life was a testament to compassion, faith, and selfless love. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, in the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA with Rev. Revonda DeBord and Pastor Chuck Williams officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life service. Inurment will follow in the Chapel of Memories Mausoleum of Forest Hills Memory Gardens.

Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register. The family of Mary Lynn Wheeless Blackwell is being cared for by Farris Cremation & Funeral Center, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA 24210, (276) 623-2700.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

— John 11:25–26 (NIV)