Julia Powell Blackwelder

November 16, 1948 - October 9, 2010
Julia Powell Blackwelder


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Julia Blackwelder, age 61, passed away October 9, 2010 at Duke University Medical Center in Durham N.C. after a lengthy illness.

Mrs. Blackwelder was born November 16, 1948 in Windsor, NC to the late Ella Smith Powell and Jonathan Stokes Powell.

Julia graduated from Vardell Hall in Red Springs, NC and Queens College in Charlotte, NC. after which she moved to Wilmington, NC where she met and married Charles MacKay Blackwelder, Jr on September 27, 1986. She worked for the NC Department of Corrections until her retirement.

Julia suffered a lifetime of Type 1 Diabetes and was a strong spokesperson for organ donation. She will be remembered by countless friends both old and new. She was a tender and honest soul, always available for helping others, no need too large or small, driving people to the doctor or visiting the elderly. Julia was never defined by her limitations but by her ability to overcome situations most would find unimaginable. Her courage shone bright for all that knew and loved her, our world has dimmed without Julia.

In addition to her husband, Julia is survived by her sister Chris and husband Wilson Glasgow of Charlotte and her two brothers, Bill and wife Agnes Powell and Jack and wife Adalia Powell of Windsor; nieces Betsy, Agnes, Julia and Mary and nephews; Jon, Jeff, Wil and Jack. Her husband’s sister Diane and husband Wayne Johnson and their children Lori and Chris.

A memorial service to celebrate Julia’s life will be Saturday, October 16th, 12 Noon at Oleander Memorial Garden, Wilmington, NC.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your local Juvenile Diabetes Association or the charity your choice.

Please share memories and condolences by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, 1535 S 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • October 12, 2010
    Debbie says:
    Julia was my best friend for the past 11 years. She was an inspiration to many, always concerned about others and seldom talking about her own issues. My thoughts and prayers are with all of her family now and through the coming days. God looked around his Garden and found an empty place. He then looked down upon his earth and saw your loving face. He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest. His Garden must be beautiful, he always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, he knew you were in pain. And knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw your path was difficult, he closed you tired eyes, He whispered to you "Peace be Thine" and gave you wings to fly. You've left us precious memories, your love will be our guide, You live on through in our hearts, you're always by our side. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone. For part of us went with you on the day God called you home. ~ Author Unknown ~

  • October 11, 2010
    Cynthia Strader says:
    Our deepest sympathies to you, Chuck, and to Julia's family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

  • October 15, 2010
    Vicky Hoggard says:
    My prayers are sent out to the family, and just as someone mentioned how lucky Julia is to have Ella Powell waiting to greet her in heaven.

  • October 15, 2010
    John Dorsey says:
    I am sad that Julia has left us. Quick with wit, a contagious laugh,a definitive southern charm, Julia was always a warm, open person to me. Although I only knew her when she was young and had a chance to chat with her some 44 years later in 1998, I have always been grateful that she is a part of my life. I miss you, Julia. Mylove to you and your family. -- John Dorsey

  • October 13, 2010
    laney layton says:
    My deepest sympathy to Chuck and the entire Powell family. Having known Julia all my life our paths had not crossed until about a year ago. It was my pleasure to reaquaint with her and to meet Chuck while completing a painting for them. I remember thinking that julia hadn't changed a bit. Still the happy soul, smiling and laughing, even with all her health burdens. She will leave a large void in many lives.