C. Roger Blackwood, a titan of industry, a pillar of public service, and one of the most influential figures in Robertson County for generations, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched civic, professional, and philanthropic contributions.
Born with an engineer’s mind and a servant’s heart, Roger’s lifelong pursuit of excellence began with dual Bachelor of Science degrees—one in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tennessee and another in Mathematics from Middle Tennessee State University.
He was a proud leader among peers, serving as president of both the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Pi Tau Sigma engineering honor society, even teaching engineering, mathematics, and sciences as a young academic.
Roger’s professional career spanned more than six decades and reflected his incredible entrepreneurial drive. From launching equipment and construction businesses in his early 20s to consulting with and rehabilitating over 200 companies across the country, he was a dynamic force in the business world.
He held ownership or leadership in ventures ranging from crane services and structural steel fabrication to oil and gas wells, real estate development, thermoforming plastics, and investment enterprises in over a dozen states.
But it was his love for Robertson County that defined his heart.
Roger faithfully served multiple terms as a County Commissioner, where he chaired the Finance, EMS, Highway, Juvenile, and Building & Grounds Committees.
As Chairman of the Robertson County Economic Development Board for over a decade, he played a central role in shaping the growth and prosperity of the region. His leadership and vision fueled economic development and brought lasting improvements to the lives of countless residents.
Roger was also a deeply generous man. His quiet philanthropy spanned dozens of organizations. He was a founding force and long-standing board member of the YMCA, chaired construction efforts for their local facility, and was twice recognized as Volunteer of the Year.
His decades-long commitment to the Kiwanis Club—both in Tennessee and Louisiana—garnered him awards and inspired programs to provide shoes, clothing, and dental care for children in need.
Whether serving on the Historical Commission, coaching football, volunteering with Big Brothers, or building homes for Habitat for Humanity, Roger gave his time, treasure, and talent freely.
Among his many honors were the Good Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America, the University of Tennessee Benefactors’ Society membership, the State of Tennessee Economic Development Council Volunteer of the Year, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Springfield High School Athletic Club.
Above all, Roger was a builder—not just of businesses and buildings, but of people and communities. He believed in second chances, personally mentoring and employing more than 35 formerly incarcerated individuals to help them restart their lives.
Roger is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Nancy Dods Blackwood; his children, Charles David Blackwood, Karen Lee Blackwood Bonner, Kathy Blackwood Williams (Royce); and his cherished grandchildren, Mitchell Matthews Bonner, Brogan Blackwood Bonner, Emma Williams, Reed Williams, and Genevieve Michelle Spratt.
He also leaves behind his nephew Bond (Dana) Oman, Jim Ward, cousin Leland Caldwell Blackwood Jr. (Lisa), and many other special family members. He was preceded in death by his late son Charles Roger Blackwood Jr., his brother Dr. H.O. Blackwood, and his foster parents, Moneta and Richard Thorpe.
His impact on Robertson County is immeasurable, and his absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew him.
C. Roger Blackwood’s life was a masterclass in service, leadership, and enduring generosity. His legacy will continue to shape our community for generations to come.
The family will receive friends from 10am until 1pm Friday, May 23rd, 2025 at the Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield. Funeral services will be conducted at 1pm Friday in the funeral home chapel with Jack Breithaupt and Jordan Osborne officiating. A private family only burial will follow in the Blackwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to: Robertson County Family YMCA, 3332 Tom Austin Hwy., Springfield, TN 37172 or by visiting www.ymcamidtn.org. Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
This obituary was published by Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier.
Obituaries provided free for the community.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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