On April 15 2019, God saw fit to take this loving mother, sister, grandmother, Mrs. Beulah Mae Blackwell, affectionately known as “Mama Noote” or Grandma Boo-da to her heavenly home. She was surrounded by her family and friends following an extended illness. She was born in Rowan County, January 8, 1924, and was the daughter of the late Susie Steele and Joseph Cowan. Beulah was a longtime member of Greater New Mount Olive and Mother of the church.

Beulah attended Iredell County schools and worked at Statesville Packing Company. She was united in marriage to Lombe Blackwell who preceded her in death. In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by three daughters, Mary Tucker, Brenda Rankins, and Carolyn Blackwell; two brothers, David Steele and Harvey Steele; and one sister, Thelma Pearson.

She leaves to cherish her legacy, two daughters, Sallie B. Witt of Statesville, Sara J. (Joseph) Farmer, of Sutherlin, Virginia; two sons, Joe L. (Pauline) Blackwell, Douglas E. (Kathy) Blackwell, both of Statesville; one brother, Henry (Essie) Steele; twelve grandchildren; 33 great

grandchildren, eighteen great- great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends; special caregivers, Louise Cook, Adriene Hogue, Zoraida Kuli Kowsky, and Rebecca Lambert; Crossroads Home Health Inc., and Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County.

A Celebration of Life Services will be conducted on Saturday, April 20, 1:00 p.m. at Christian Outreach of The Piedmont, Statesville with Bishop Joseph Farmers officiating and Pastor Carolyn Morrison doing the eulogy. The family will receive friends from 12:30 - 1:00 p.m. at the church but will assemble at 1309 Mt. Olive Rd., Statesville. A wake will be held on Friday, April 19, 2019, at Greater New Mt. Olive Church, Statesville, from 6:30- 8:00 p.m.. Visit the Book of Memories for Mrs. Beulah Mae Blackwell at www.rutledgeandbigham.com. Rutledge and Bigham is serving the Blackwell family.