Carl "Pop" Blackburn

Carl “Pop” Blackburn, of New Madrid, MO made the ultimate home run on Friday, October, 8, 2021. At the age of 64, he passed away in the comfort of his home. To no one’s surprise, he spent his last hours on Earth in the company of his wife, enjoying a baseball game. 

Carl Gene Blackburn was born on August 15, 1957 in Dexter, MO to Tommy and Mildred Hardin Blackburn. On February 9, 1991, he drafted Kaye White as his wife. Thirty years together, they had three daughters; Anne Lawrence and Krista Lawrence of New Madrid, MO and Reagan Green of Georgia.

Carl was a Parma High School, Class of 1975 graduate. He then attended Police Auxiliary Training and worked in public safety, serving New Madrid County.  In 1979 Carl took a carbon rodding position at Noranda Aluminum, working there until the plant closed in 2016. Carl was a member of the United Steelworkers Union, The VFW, and various other non-profit organizations.  He was an avid Cardinals fan, and expected his family to go to as many games as possible each year. He spent many Friday nights at the Malden Speedway, and his Saturdays were filled with flea markets and trade fairs. He spoiled his family, but also threatened a knuckle sandwich when they got a little too sassy. He always put others’ needs first, and taught his children and grandchildren the important values in life. His shoes can never be filled.

Carl is survived by his biggest fans and teammates, including his wife Kaye White Blackburn and daughters Anne Lawrence, Krista Lawrence, and Reagan Green. Brothers Sam (Janet) Blackburn of Sikeston and Chris Blackburn of Parma remain in the home team dugout, missing Carl. Other team members include his grieving grandchildren, Jesseca Sprouse of New Madrid, Alex (Brianna) Sprouse of Lilbourn, Wade Mowery of Sikeston, Victoria Green of Georgia, and Chandler Smith of Georgia. To carry on his legacy, he leaves behind four great-grandchildren, Bella Roberts, AnnaKate Nowell, Jacie Nowell, and Connor Sprouse.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Carl’s service will take place at Richards Funeral Home in New Madrid on Friday, October 15, 2021.  Visitation is from 12:00-2:00 p.m. with funeral immediately following.  

Walking him to home plate are Alex Sprouse, Wade Mowery, Lee Boyd, Josh Nowell, Jerry Cartwright, James Hodges, Paul Roberts, Jimmy Henderson, and Chris Henry.