Helen M. Blackburn

Helen M. Blackburn went to be with her Lord and Savior, Thursday, June 15, 2023.

She was the 2nd daughter of Nora and Joseph Mellow.

Helen was born in Los Banos, CA on September 11, 1925 and raised on the family ranch in Merced, CA where she became a lifelong resident.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 35 years, Jesse E. Blackburn; her youngest son, James R. Blackburn; her sister Marjorie Sanchez; her brothers Norman and David Mellow. She is survived by 3 children; Roger Blackburn (Virginia) Greenville, CA, Lynn Hays (Lance) Schell City, MO, Harold Blackburn (Judy) Merced, CA, 4 grandchildren; Casey Blackburn, Crystal Blackburn, Jenny Carroll-Swindler and Kody Hays; 4 great grandchildren; Sgt. Jesse Dunckley, US Army (Kiera), Madison Dunckley (Luis), Hayley and Kayley Blackburn; 3 great-great grandchildren; Jameson and River Sage Dunckley and Liam Carrillo.

Helen graduated from Merced High School in 1943. After graduation, she was a live in babysitter for the Salters an E. 20th. She then moved in with her Aunt Myrtle to attend Business college in Palo Alto. It was this training that led her to receive a Teletype position in Base Supply at Castle Air Force Base. During her 25 years of service, she received many work commendations. During this time she met Jesse at a USO dance and married in 1945.

After a short time as a stay at home mom, she returned to work as a receptionist at MCMC in the ER. She met Dr. Maloney there and he soon asked her to join his office staff where she spent 20 years as a receptionist/office manager. After retiring, she spent many years as a volunteer at MCMC in the gift shop with Betty Gowdy.

Helen lived a blessed life. Jesse built the family a cabin at bass Lake where we spent many summers enjoying the lake and mountains. She and Jesse were involved with Boy Scouting, community sports groups. She also maintained a scholarship fund for many years in honor of her son Jim. She was a lifelong member of Central Presbyterian Church where she served in many capacities. She taught Sunday school, lead Bible studies, Clipper Club, a Deacon in 1968 (four times total) and the first woman elder in 1979.

Visitation will be held at Ivers and Alcorn Funeral Home, 901 W. Main Street in Merced, from 4pm-8pm on June 25.

A memorial service will be held on June 26, 2023, 11:00AM, at Central Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dave McGurk officiating. Burial will be private.

Memorial contributions to the American Heart Association of Central Presbyterian Church memorial Fund are appreciated.

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