Owen "RED" Blackwell

Elnor Owen “Red” Blackwell, 82, of Yellville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at his home on March 6, 2026.  Red was born in Yellville, Arkansas, on July 12, 1943, to Elnor and Elizabeth (Owen) Blackwell.  He was born and raised in Yellville and remained a lifelong resident of the community he loved.

Mr. Blackwell was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and spending time outside. In fact, he would rather be outside enjoying nature than sitting in his home.  Known to many by his nickname “Red,” he had a lifelong passion for rodeos. He proudly served as President of the Saddle Club and traveled widely competing in rodeos throughout the years.

Red worked at the shirt factory in Yellville for 44 years until his retirement.  He started at the bottom and worked his way up.  During his time there, he served as a manager and had the opportunity to travel to places such as New York, Jamaica, and El Salvador for work.  No matter where he traveled for work, he was known to show up wearing his jeans and cowboy boots.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Richey Blackwell; his sons, Owen Blackwell and Gregory Blackwell; his parents, Elnor and Elizabeth Blackwell; and his siblings, Franklin D. Blackwell, Robert Lee Blackwell, and Edith Ellen Burris.

He is survived by his daughter, Magan Blackwell and her partner Justin; and one cherished grandchild, Cason Bunch.

Red will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his dedication to his work, and his deep roots in the community.  He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

There is no memorial service planned at this time.

Arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation located in Lead Hill, Arkansas.  

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