William “W.D.” Blackmon

William “W.D.” Blackmon, age 89, of Okatie, SC died Saturday, May 28, 2016 at Ridgeland Nursing Center. Mr. Blackmon was born on March 30, 1927 in Aiken, SC, the son of the late William D. Blackmon and Ethel Mae Scott Blackmon. He was a graduate of Beaufort High School and at the age of 16 enlisted in the United States Navy, serving during World War II. He worked for South Carolina Electric & Gas, retiring after 43 years of service as a Local Superintendent. He served the Town of Ridgeland as Fire Chief, later serving on the town council, and ultimately serving as Mayor, while subsequently holding the responsibility of Police Commissioner. He was a board member of the Coastal Council, a member of the Lions Club, and a longtime member of St. Paul United Methodist Church. Outside of work and his civic responsibilities, he enjoyed grafting and growing camellias as well as woodworking. Mr. Blackmon is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Doris Blackmon; sons, Puggy Blackmon and wife Gail of Blythewood, SC and Randy Blackmon and wife Dayle of Lexington, SC; sisters, Helen and Rachel, both of New Ellington, SC; grandchildren, Kyle and wife April, Chelsea and husband Joe, Ashley and husband Jared, Jordan, Tate and wife Randi; and six great-grandchildren. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon, Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 7488 W. Main Street, Ridgeland, SC 29936. The family will be receiving friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Burial will follow the service at Evergreen Cemetery in Beaufort, SC. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church. Sauls Funeral Home of Ridgeland is serving the family.