Gary Russell Blackham, 78, of Lancaster, S.C. passed away on Feb. 5, 2025.
Born in 1946 in Uniontown, PA, he was the son of Wayne and Helen Blackham. Gary grew up in Fredonia, N.Y., lived most of his life in Eugene, OR, and later moved to Lancaster to be near grandchildren.
Gary attended Ohio University and SUNY Fredonia, where he nurtured his love for the outdoors, leading him to a career in the lumber industry with U.S. Plywood, Champion International, Georgia Pacific, and Weyerhaeuser. He was a proud Eagle Scout and member of the Order of the Arrow. Gary served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the New York Army National Guard for six years. He was also a regular blood donor, competing with his kids and grandkids to see who could donate the fastest, eventually surpassing his goal of over 100 units.
Gary was an active member of Rotary Clubs in both Oregon and South Carolina and regularly attended First United Methodist Church in Lancaster.
Gary married Mary Sullivan of Dunkirk, N.Y. in 1969, and they shared 55 years of love and devotion.
He is survived by his wife; their daughters, Karen (Rick) of Hawaii and Andrea (Eric) of South Carolina; and five grandchildren, Ricky (29), Maggie (27), Scout (18), Lacey (15), and Lars (12).
A graveside service will be held at a later date in Fredonia, N.Y.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church in Lancaster.
Gary’s warmth, generosity, and love for family will always be remembered.
May he rest in peace.
Notes to the family may be made at www.lancasterfuneralhome.com.
Lancaster Funeral Home & Cremation Service is serving the family of Mr. Blackham.

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Thomas Hyslip

Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.

Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor...