Lela Sutton Blackwell

Alexander Funeral Home of Cleveland announces the death of Lela Sutton Blackwell, 86 of Cleveland, GA formerly of Murphy, NC. Lela was called home to rest on Saturday, September 3, 2011. She was born in White County, GA, on May 9, 1925 to the late Aaron "Tony" and Annie Wiley Sutton. Lela was also preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, the late Felix Blackwell of Murphy, NC; her sisters: Cora Mae Carter, Cincinnati, OH; Carrie Ritha Trammell, Sautee (Bean Creek), GA and brother, Charles Shilo Sutton of San Antonio, TX.
From the age of 17 until 3 years ago, Lela resided in Murphy, NC where she raised her family and worked as a dietician at Providence Hospital, later to become known as Murphy Medical Center. She retired after a total of 30 years. Lela was of the Baptist faith.

She was a caregiver who enjoyed taking care of her grand and great grandchildren. She loved cooking and baking yeast rolls for which she was awarded ribbons and certificates. She enjoyed gardening, canning and always stock piled food in case someone else needed it. She tended to the elderly in her NC neighborhood by carrying food to those who lived near by. She would say dipping snuff " W E Garret and Son", she called it Garrett Strong, was one of her pleasures in life.

She loved her sisters and her brother Charles of whom she shared the same birthday (May 9).

Better known as "Granny" by her beloved family and friends, Lela was united in marriage in December of 1941. To this union was born one son, Phillip J. Blackwell, of Cleveland, GA. Lela will forever and always be cherished and loved by her son Phil and six grandchildren: Teresa (Javonnii) Curry, Sandy Springs, GA; Michelle Blackwell, Murphy, NC; Marquita "Shondell" Blackwell, Smith NC; Phillip Jerome Blackwell, Powder Springs, GA; Melanie Blackwell (Joe Islas), Powder Springs, GA; and Felicia Blackwell, Greensboro, NC; thirteen great grandchildren and eight great-great grand children. One Aunt, Ruby Mizell and numerous nieces and nephews. And a special friend, Mike Thomas.

A Celebration of Life for Mrs. Lela Blackwell will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday September 8, 2011 from the chapel of Alexander Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to the family of Mrs. Blackwell by visiting
www.alexander-funeral.com

Alexander Funeral Home of Cleveland in charge of arrangements.