Obituary of Katie Bell Blackman

Missionary Katie Bell Blackman peacefully departed this life on January 3, 2018.  She was born on January 3, 1929, in Covington, TN. to the proud parents of Ama Lou Bonds and Edward Booker. Katie was the youngest of seven children. Katie received her education through the Covington School. At the age of 16, Katie left TN and moved to Kalamazoo, MI. 

Katie married the love of her life Robert Clozell Blackman in 1961 until he passed way in 2002. Unto this union eight children were born.

Katie received a call from the Lord and gave her life to Him at an early age.  She was a member of New Hope C.O.G.I.C. in Kalamazoo, MI., under the leadership of Elder Jessie Pitts.  She was a faithful member and served the church and the Lord, in her calling as a Missionary.

Katie was a hard worker whatever her hands found to do she would do to provide for her family.  She was employed by Mahoney's Department Store and a Caregiver for the elderly. She also worked for Jack Thurman’s until they closed.  

Katie loved being around her family, especially her grandchildren.  She enjoyed spending time with them and taking them places like the movies, park, and skating.  Katie was a strong woman, never giving up. She fought the good fight and finished her course.  Now she is resting in the arms of her Lord and Savior.

Missionary Katie leaves to forever cherish her memory her children: Wanda Murray, John Booker, Manuel (Dloris) Booker, Sherry (John) Lampkins, Debbie Booker, Babbie Booker, Tyrone Blackman, Darlene “Blackman”(Eugene) Hegwood all of Kalamazoo, MI; her siblings: Robert Eugene Booker, Arthur Lee Booker both of Peoria, Illinois; her grandchildren: DeKentra Blackman, Anthony Murray, DeKent Murray, DeNia Moss, Demetruis Blackman, Quinesha James, Manuel Haywood, Quincy Lampkins, Tony Lampkins, Darkreisha Betts, Tiyesh Eisley, Chris Booker, John Booker, Chardenia Booker, Jaquela Booker; great grandchildren: Kenndi and Howard Eisley, Taylor Murray, Brianna Murray, DeKent Murray, III; along with a host of another grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Missionary Katie is preceded in death by her parents Ama Lou and Edward Booker, children Robert Blackman, and Charles James her sisters Hattie Mitchell, Bernice Booker, Ama Marie Booker, and her brother Edward Booker. Although Katie has departed from this life, she will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.