About This Memory Space
This page was created for Barbara Jean Blackwell's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Barbara Jean Blackwell's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Barbara Jean Blackwell. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Barbara Jean Blackwell, affectionately known as BJ, carved a path of bold independence and unwavering generosity, from her roots in Petersburg, Virginia, to vibrant adventures across the country, leaving an indelible mark through her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to uplifting others.
Born in Petersburg, Virginia, BJ embraced life's adventures early on, venturing to Alaska shortly after high school graduation before settling in Indianapolis, Indiana. There, she discovered profound connections that shaped her journey, blending her free-spirited nature with a fierce determination to support those around her. A devoted follower of Christ, she worshipped at Eastern Star Church, finding joy in faith amid her travels and celebrations. Known for her stubborn independence and readiness to fight for her convictions, BJ lived vibrantly, always extending home-cooked meals, listening ears, job opportunities, and shelter to anyone in need.
BJ launched her professional life at Western Electric, advancing to Allison Transmission where she proudly joined the United Auto Workers Union and retired ahead of schedule. Channeling her drive into entrepreneurship, she founded BJ Nails, building a thriving venture. Her generosity extended further through an inheritance from her aunt, Lucille Butler, which funded an enduring NAACP scholarship in Greater Boston for high school students pursuing accounting careers.
Photos of Barbara's Life
Family & Loved Ones
Cherished bonds wove through BJ's world, as she welcomed her mother Lillian and brother Joseph to Indianapolis, ensuring their care and weaving a tight network across the nation. Cousins Odessa and Brianna Pankey in North Chesterfield, Virginia, along with lifelong friend Anita Jo Atkins-Sawyer and pals Bobbie and Reba Crenshaw in Indianapolis, hold dear her steadfast support. Preceded by her grandmother Alease P. Pankey, mother Lillian J. Jefferson, brother Joseph L. Jefferson, aunts Lucille Butler and Margie C. Pankey, cousin Kevin L. Pankey, and friends Karl Davis and Juanita Mitchell, BJ's circle reflected her boundless giving heart.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Echoes from the community capture BJ's essence as a spirited trailblazer whose kindness and tenacity inspired countless stories of shared journeys and unwavering aid.
For those looking for service information