Thomas, or better known as Donnie or Blackie, was born September 14, 1929, to Henry Clay and Francis Blackburn in Chicago, Illinois. Donnie went to be with the Lord on April 11, 2022, at the age of 92, in Fishers, Indiana.

Donnie graduated from Steinmetz High School in Chicago, IL. In 1947. Three years later, on January 6, 1951, he married his beloved Dorothy Waschevski and remained a faithful loving husband for 72 years. Donnie was a devoted husband and father. He worked for Action Marking Products for 54 years and provided well for his family.

Donnie loved to serve beside his wife at Trinity Christian Fellowship in Chicago, IL. He was a Deacon and taught children in Sunday School. He loved to spend summer vacations with his family at the Blackburn farm in Conehatta, MS. Hobbies were woodworking, stamp collecting, photography, and airplanes.

Donnie was the father of five children: daughter, Kerry and sons, Keith, Bruce, David, and Brian. He was preceded in death by his mother Francis Blackburn, father Henry Clay Blackburn, stepmother Mildred Blackburn, brother James Blackburn, daughter Kerry Howard, and son Keith Blackburn. He is survived by his wife Dorothy Blackburn, sons and spouses Bruce Blackburn, David and Barb Blackburn, Brian and Terry Blackburn, sisters Mary Holland and Patricia DiMichele; Grandchildren Tommy Blackburn, Sarah Clark, Jessica Blackburn, and Clay Blackburn; Great Grandchildren Elliott and Oliver Blackburn; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 27, 2022 from 10:00 AM till 12:00 PM at Newton County Funeral Home South (100 Old Hwy 15 Loop, Newton, MS 39345) with funeral services immediately following in the chapel.  Burial will take place at Conehatta Methodist Cemetery in Conehatta, MS.  Bro. Justin Chaney will officiate.  Newton County Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements (601) 635-3200.