Robert Eugene Blackford

Robert Eugene Blackford, 81, Greenfield, passed away Thursday, May 8, 2025, while in Morristown Manor. Robert was born on August 31, 1943, in Greenfield, IN, one of 16 children to parents Maurice and Effie May (Hendren) Blackford. Robert entered the U.S. Army in June 1961 and served until May 1969. On June 6, 1965, Robert married the love of his life, Janice Stephens.

Robert was the President of Morristown Pike. Well, not actually, but, yes, actually. He has T-shirt proof. His wife, Janice, was the First Lady and their dog was the Mayor. Robert was known by many as Bobby Baby. He had a tremendous sense of humor, his laughter was bigger than life, he was a practical joker, and his persona was unforgettable. He was a true character in his own right. He loved to sing karaoke, play BINGO, never missed a garage sale, auction, nor flea market, and rooted on the Colts when they played well. His garage was organized, and re-organized, and yes, re-re-organized many times before everything found their proper home. In his younger years, Robert organized and overseen some high school basketball teams. Robert was a hard worker. He worked 41 years for Bryant/Carrier heating and cooling, Indianapolis, as the group leader, finally retiring in 2006. He needed additional time to go to garage sales.

Robert is survived by his loving children, Tammy Blackford-Hall, Todd (Melissa) Blackford, and Tonya (David) Gossett; grandchildren: Quentin Remus, Cora Blackford, Jynesha Coleman-Blackford, Seth Blackford, and Brooklyn Blackford; and great-grandchild, Graedyn Blackford; sister, Janice Helms; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Janice of 58 years; and 14 siblings.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Stillinger Family Funeral Home, 1780 West Main Street, Greenfield, with the service immediately following at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Park Cemetery, Greenfield. If you would like to sign the online guest book or send condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.stillingerfamily.com