Rocky Mount -

Elizabeth "Lib" Deal Blackburn went home to be with her Lord and Savior on March 30, 2024.  She was born to Lewis Arch Deal and Ruby Adams Deal on December 13, 1944.  In addition to her parents, Lib was preceded in death by her stepmother, Helen N. Deal; daughter, Stephanie Elizabeth Deal; and brother Lewis Arch Deal, II.

She is survived by her husband, Reuben G. "Ben" Blackburn; son: Lewis E. Blackburn (Christina) of Englewood, Colorado; grandchildren, Kaitlynn B. Blackburn, Everette J. Blackburn, and Taylor Goubeaux.

Lib was passionate about two things, education and community service. After graduating from Brenau University in 1967, she began her career as counselor and Director of Social Work at Wake Medical Center, Raleigh, NC until 1971. Her career in education began in 1973 as Kindergarten teacher and then Director of the Church of the Good Shepherd Day School until 1993. She continued her educational career in the NC Community College system as a teacher and presenter of workshops and seminars until her retirement in 2001. Her devotion to community service was shown in her leadership in the Rocky Mount Women's Clubs and the Business and Professional Women's Club, serving as President on multiple occasions. She was also an active member and supporter of the Tar River Orchestra and Chorus League and numerous other school and civic organizations.

The family will host a memorial service on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 2:00pm at The Church of the Good Shepherd, 231 N. Church St Rocky Mount, NC 27804. A reception will immediately follow and all are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations in memory of Lib to The Church of the Good Shepherd, 231 North Church Street, Rocky Mount, 27804.