James Loyd Blackburn

James Loyd Blackburn, 80 of St. Pauls left this earth to join his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at his residence.

Born May 10, 1942 in Robeson County, Loyd was the son of the late Simeon and Elizabeth Blackburn.  He married his charismatic and beautiful wife Marilyn on December 22, 1962.  Loyd was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served during the Vietnam War.  Following retirement from DuPont in Fayetteville, Loyd enjoyed many beautiful days on the golf course with friends.  He could also be found regularly attending, helping and socializing at St. Pauls Community Church where he served as a deacon.  He was a brilliant beam of goodness in this world, always striving to share God’s love.  Loyd was a devoted Christian, husband, father, grandfather and friend.

In addition to his parents, Loyd is preceded in death by his sisters, Hazel Anderson, Jean Thompkins, and Mabel Garrett; his brothers, Bernice Blackburn, Edward Blackburn, and Wendell Blackburn.

Loyd is survived by his wife, Marilyn Ann Blackburn of the home; his daughter, Melody Lund and husband, Keith of Apex; his beautiful granddaughter, Kendal Elizabeth Lund of Apex.  He is also survived by his brothers, Charles Blackburn and wife, Marilyn of St Pauls and Donnie Blackburn and wife, Debra of Lumberton; his sisters, Cathy Dudney and husband, Brice of Lumberton, Joyce Thompkins and husband, Matt of Lumberton, Linda Jackson of Grays Creek, Mary Blake of Aberdeen and Sue Byrd and husband, Cecil of Fuquay Varina; along with numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be Saturday, November 19, 2022 from 1:00pm-2:00pm at St. Pauls Community Church with the funeral beginning at 2:00p.m. in the church.  Burial with Military Rites by the Robeson County Honor Guard will immediately follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in St. Pauls.

Services Entrusted to McNeill Legacy Funeral Home of St. Pauls.