News Summary
The Clarksville community is mourning the loss of Orville Blackledge, a dedicated Air Force veteran who passed away at 94. Known for his deep love of family and nature, Orville leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy that touched many lives. His service in the Air Force spanned over two decades, after which he established a heating and air service business. A celebration of his life will take place in Middletown, Ohio, along with burial services in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Clarksville, TN Mourns the Loss of Beloved Air Force Veteran Orville Blackledge
In heartfelt news, the community of Clarksville, Tennessee, is coming together to remember and honor the life of Orville Blackledge, who passed away at the impressive age of 94. A dedicated Air Force veteran, Orville’s life story is one marked by service, love for family, and a deep appreciation of nature.
From Humble Beginnings to a Lifelong Legacy
Born on August 26, 1930, in Laurel, Mississippi, Orville was the son of Leonard and Eliza Gertrude Blackledge. His journey began in the small-town charms of Laurel, and he would later embark on an adventurous path that most could only dream of.
In 1950, Orville answered the call of duty and joined the United States Air Force. His military career spanned over two decades, during which he traveled and lived in numerous locations, including Georgia, England, Florida, Alaska, Nebraska, and Guam. He notably retired with the rank of Master Sergeant in 1973, completing a distinguished career that was both fulfilling and challenging.
Settling Down in Clarksville
After hanging up his military boots, Orville found a new home for his family in Clarksville, Tennessee, moving there from Starkville, Mississippi. With the discipline and work ethic honed during his years of service, he established his own heating and air service business that successfully ran for 16 years. New adventures may have been on the horizon, but nothing brought Orville more joy than spending time with his loving family.
A Family Man at Heart
Orville was more than just a hardworking man; he was the cornerstone of his family. From fishing trips to backyard barbecues, he cherished every moment spent with loved ones. He took immense pride in being a grandfather and found boundless joy in the laughter of his grandbabies and playful puppies. Those who knew him often spoke of his calm demeanor, caring nature, and an unwavering love that touched every life he encountered.
Cherished Memories and Lasting Connections
Much loved and greatly missed, Orville is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Blackledge, along with several siblings, including Winfred Blackledge, Frances Pitts, George Hollis Blackledge, and Imogene Manning. However, his legacy lives on through his children—Krista, Kevin, and Kathy—and his adored grandchildren: Brian, Taylor, Jessica, Jeffrey, Dillon, Derrick, Dakota, and Damon. They, along with numerous great-grandchildren, will carry his memory in their hearts forever.
Orville’s family also includes extended relatives such as sister-in-law Bonnie Blackledge, brother-in-law Floyd Pitts, and a host of friends who considered him family. His warm, supportive nature left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Celebrating a Life Well-Lived
The community is invited to pay their respects during visitation on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the Breitenbach Anderson Funeral Home in Middletown, Ohio. A funeral service will follow at 10:00 AM, officiated by Chaplain Tom Meyers. Friends and family can gather to celebrate Orville’s extraordinary life.
Orville will then be laid to rest at the Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery in Knoxville, TN, during a graveside service on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM, officiated by Chaplain Sandy Tracy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice in Orville’s honor, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to serving others.
Orville Blackledge’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, service, and family. As the Clarksville community mourns his passing, they do so with gratitude for the incredible legacy he leaves behind.
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Additional Resources
- Memory Chapel: Orville Blackledge
- Memory Chapel: Kathy Jean Ezell
- Tukios Website: Memorial Event
- French Funerals: Leslee Howse
- Memory Chapel: Roberta Walters Miller
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: obituary
- Google Scholar: obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: obituary
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
