Samuel Nathan Blackburn, 84, of Fort Smith, Arkansas passed away on Friday, October 19, 2018 in his home. Sam Blackburn was known by many names in his lifetime; Sammy, Sarg., Mr. Sam, Bro. Sam, KC5CLO and Capt. Sam. He was born and raised on a farm in Comanche County, OK. He graduated from Geronimo High School, Oklahoma City University, Memphis Theology Seminary Program of alternate studies and numerous military, law enforcement and security courses. He retired after 31 years as an Electrical Engineer from AT&T, was a pastor for 23 years at different Cumberland Presbyterian Churches in Arkansas and finished his career as the Security Officer for the Social Security Office in Fort Smith. For many years he worked more than one job at a time.
Sam is survived by his wife of 64 years Nathalee; two daughters, Lanita Nielsen of Lewisville, TX and Linda Black and her husband Bill of Mesquite, TX; one son, Samuel Gary Blackburn and his wife Maureen of Fort Smith, AR; two sisters, Lavonda Merritt of Paris, TX and Elsie Hill of Rogers, AR; ; a brother, Carl Blackburn of Lawton, OK; seven grandchildren, Ryan, Erin, Jessica, Austin, Adisen, Arabelle and Alex and four great grandchildren, Randy, Bailey, Nathan and Hailey. Sam and Nathalee were foster parents to 18 children.
Funeral services are 1:00PM, Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at Ocker-Putman Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Smith with burial with honors at the U.S. National Cemetery.
Honorary pallbearers are employees of the Social Security Office of Fort Smith, AR.
Mr. Blackburn may be viewed Monday from 12-5 and Tuesday from 8-7.
Memorials may be made at the Presbyterian Children’s Home 5920 W. William Dr. Bldg. 3-Ste 100, Austin, TX 78749 or at www.pchas.org.

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