Duke Blackwell

Duke Blackwell, 74, of Muskogee, OK passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023. He was born on December 17, 1948 to Bob and Cathryn (Sullins) Blackwell in Muskogee, OK. He attended public school, graduating from Muskogee Central High School in 1967. Duke enlisted in the US Air Force in December of 1967. He proudly served his country as a ground radio controller until January of 1973. After being honorably discharged he attended Northeastern State University where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in accounting and business. Duke, a well-known Muskogee businessman, was a proud Muskogee Rougher, and a diehard Saint Louis Cardinals fan. He enjoyed fishing, taking long drives in his infamous Monte Carlo, shopping a good sale, and the thrill of auctions and estate sales. Duke was described as the fun, cool dad to friends and boyfriends his daughters often brought home. Duke took pride in how he dressed and was always dressed to the nine’s, sporting the latest fashion. Duke loved his family deeply. He loved his dinner dates and auctions with his brother Loren, mom Cathryn, and sister-in-law CC Lucas. He loved his mom’s chicken and dumplings and her famous coconut cream pie. Duke loved his three daughters with all his heart. His wit and sense of humor would always make them smile. He loved watching his first granddaughter, Brookelyn (Brookie) play softball and was so proud of her and her accomplishments. He loved watching Ike and was fascinated with the way Ike loved numbers. He loved all of his grandkids and often said Pappy was his favorite title. Duke loved to laugh, had a quick wit, enjoyed his morning cappuccino and donuts, had a sweet tooth, and loved to listen to loud music on his many long drives. Duke touched many lives in his 74 years. He will be deeply missed by his family, his three daughters, and all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his father, Bob Blackwell; grandparents, Mamie and Bill Sullins; Birdie and Quantrell Blackwell. He is survived by his mother, Cathryn Blackwell; brother, Loren Blackwell; sister-in-law, CC Lucas all of Muskogee, OK; daughters, Tonya and Kevin Heath of Broken Arrow, Brenda Gilmore of Muskogee, OK, Becca and Seth Littrell of Westlake, TX; grandchildren, Ike Heath, Brookelyn Gilmore, Tripp Littrell and Elle Littrell; and a host of other family members and friends. Visitation for Duke will be 9AM-8PM, Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at Cornerstone Funeral Home. Family will receive friends from 5PM-7PM, Wednesday, April 26, 2023 as well. A celebration of Duke’s life will be 12:30PM, Friday, April 28, 2023 at Cornerstone Funeral Home with Mr. Donnie Jones officiating. The interment will take place at Fort Gibson National Cemetery prior to the service at 10AM that same day. Serving as pallbearers will be Loren Blackwell, Donnie Jones, Stephen Smalley, Bill Craig, Rickey Ary, and Jim Winner. The family wishes to thank East Gate Village and Hometown Hospice for the outstanding care they provided for Duke in his final days.

Duke Blackwell

December 17, 1948 - April 21, 2023