Leonard J. Blackburn

Born on September 20, 1950 in Frostproof, Florida
Departed December 13, 2022 in Melbourne, Florida

Leonard J. Blackburn – a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend – passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Melbourne, Florida on Tuesday, December 13th, 2022.

Leonard was born to Betty June Harnage, in Frostproof, Florida on September 20th, 1950. He graduated from Melbourne Highschool in 1969 and immediately went into the United States Army, where he fought in the Vietnam War.

Leonard fought in the 25th Infantry Division 3/4 Calvary. Serving 2 combat tours in Vietnam from 1969-1971, he managed to earn 2 Purple Hearts and a bronze star during this time. Leonard went on to serve 20 years, traveling the world and being stationed all over.

He retired from the Army in 1987 and eventually met and married his wife, Charlotte Blackburn the same year. With 35 years of marriage December 5th, 2022.

Leonard leaves behind his wife, 2 daughters; Rebekah and Cathryn. Son, Christopher. 3 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. As well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. However, he was loved by many, many more.

His service will be held on Saturday, January 7th, 2023 at 2pm, at the Brownlie – Maxwell Funeral Chapel followed by Leonard’s Celebration of Life with friends and family.

Guestbook Entry

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Gary Quay from Fairfax, Virginia
January 7, 2023
I served with Blackie in Vietnam and was honored to know him and to fight beside this brave soul. Years after Vietnam, he approached me in a line at a military commissary. I was very humbled that he remembered me. That was typical Blackie. Where others might have passed on that opportunity, he seized it. As more years passed, Blackie and Charlotte came to attend reunions with us. It was my pleasure to once again renew my relationship with Blackie, and to meet his lovely Charlotte. General George Patton Jr. said that we should not mourn our fallen but should thank God that such men lived. I will mourn Blackie's passing and thank God that I knew him. Rest in Peace, My Brother. I'll see you on Fiddler's Green.
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