Mr. Robert Carroll Blackwell, 86, of Gastonia, North Carolina, passed away Friday, May 29, 2026, at Gastonia Health and Rehab Center, Gastonia, NC, surrounded by his family.

Mr. Blackwell was born on September 9, 1939, in Alamance County, NC, to the late Harry Adron Blackwell and Tinnie Jones Walker Blackwell.

Over the years, Bob happily spent his time on the golf course or fishing on his boat, Reel Therapy. For years he owned and operated The Left-Handed Golfer in Charlotte, one of the few stores dedicated to left-handed golfers in the United States. Bob also enjoyed sharing his love of music through his DJ work and his R&B Facebook group. A proud graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, he was a lifelong Tarheel.

One of Bob's greatest joys was serving others through his faith. He was actively involved in church and found deep fulfillment in helping others discover God through prison ministry work with the Methodist Church. For many years he attended Central Church of God and, even when he was no longer able to attend in-person, he faithfully watched services at home.

Bob will be remembered most for the love he poured into his family and making every moment together special. He created lasting memories on family beach trips, taking his grandchildren on moped rides to the pool, boat rides, and playing games like Guesstures. One of his favorite traditions was gathering round while Bob made his homemade peach ice cream; a treat that became a treasured part of their childhood. Through his stories, laughter and adventurous spirit, Bob filled the lives of his children and grandchildren with experiences and memories they will cherish forever.

He is survived by his son, Elliott Blackwell (Danelle), Gastonia, NC; his daughter, Kristen Amidi (Amir), Gastonia, NC; his grandchildren, Christian Amidi, Abby Amidi, Bethany Amidi, Benjamin Blackwell (Haeun Chung), and Cava Blackwell, his brother; Landy Blackwell, and his  loyal dog, Buddy. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beth Blackwell, his sister, Betty Tucker, and his brother, Bill Blackwell.

Bob's legacy of faith, family, friendship, laughter, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Central Church of God in Charlotte, North Carolina.

M. L. Ford & Sons Funeral Home, Lake Wylie, SC is serving the Blackwell family.

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