Blackburn, Atha Pete

Atha Pete (The Piano Man) Blackburn, 61, of Dublin, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, April 12, 2007 surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

He was a veteran of the United States Coast Guard, serving from 1965-1969. He was a member of the Radford Worship Center. Pete retired from the New River Detention Home, where he was a father to many for over 32 years. Pete was most well known for his musical talents and his enormous heart.

He enjoyed singing and playing the piano with his gospel group, The Singspirations, with whom he ministered for many years. He also played many events with his group, Pete Blackburn and His Neurotic Nomads, performing country music and 50’s and 60’s music. During his lifetime, he touched many hearts and lives, and he was loved and treasured by all who knew him.

As he sang in one of his favorite songs “When at last, I see the face of Jesus, before whose image other loves must flee, and when they crown Him Lord of all, I want to be there, this is just what heaven means to me”. He will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.

One of Pete’s favorite scriptures was Psalms 23:6, Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will Dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

He was born February 17, 1946 to the late Bob and Clara June Blackburn. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Cadell and Nathan Blackburn.

Survivors include his beloved wife of forty years, Sandra Blackburn of Dublin; two sons and daughters-in-law, Chris and Tina Blackburn of Radford; Keith and Christina Blackburn of Christiansburg; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Gather and Brenda Blackburn of Dublin; Anthony and Melody Blackburn of Hiwassee; a sister and brother-in-law, Robin and Gary Quesenberry of Dublin; and two sisters-in-law, Patricia and Bonnie Blackburn of Radford; four grandchildren, Cole and Ben Blackburn of Radford and Tyler and Jaelan Blackburn of Christiansburg; aunt, Frankie Chapman of Roanoke; one uncle, Mac Beasley of Radford; and several nieces ,nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m. Sunday, April 15, 2007 at the Radford Worship Center with Dr. Hal Adams officiating. Interment will follow in Highland Memory Gardens in Dublin. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8 p.m. Saturday at the Radford Worship Center in Radford. Arrangements by Mullins Funeral Home in Radford. mullinsfuneralhome.com