Thomas Clark Blackmon,Sr.

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Feb 11th, 2019

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Death Date: Feb 11, 2019

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Biography: Thomas Clark Blackmon, Sr. passed away at the age of 78 on February 11, 2019, after a long battle with Lewey Body Disease. He died at home, surrounded by family, friends, and his devoted caregivers, assured until his last breath that he was loved, he had fought the good fight, and was leaving a legacy of love, faith, and integrity. Tom was born on March 1, 1940, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, the fourth of five siblings, to Edward Holloway Blackmon and Ruby Freeman Blackmon. He grew up in Stuttgart and DeWitt and graduated from Ouachita Baptist University. In 1967, he married the love of his life and best friend, Bonnie Knauer Blackmon, and worked, traveled, and laughed with her for the next 52 years. In 1969, Tom took over Blackmon Auctions and expanded his father?s seasonal business, begun in 1938, into an internationally renowned auction company. Over fifty years later, loyal customers still attend the auctions, hoping to hear Tom sing ?Waltz Across Texas.? The Blackmon Auctions legacy continues today under the ownership of Thomas Blackmon, Jr. Tom is survived by his wife, Bonnie Blackmon; his daughter, Katherine Blackmon Carroll (Jamie Carroll); his son, Thomas Clark Blackmon, Jr. (Ginger Ledbetter Blackmon); his grandchildren, Lydia Elliott, Grace Blackmon, and Thomas Clark Blackmon III; his sister, Ella Braden; his brother, Jim Blackmon; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Jamie Blackmon Dale; and his brother, Eddie Blackmon. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 15, 2019, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home, located at 6313 W. Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 16, 2019, at 11:00 a.m., also at Ruebel Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pulaski County Humane Society, Arkansas Hospice, and the Friendly Chapel Church of the Nazarene in North Little Rock.

Condolences(46)

terry burford

#46

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

i never had the chance to meet mr tom- but i became friends with him selling him radio adds in magnolia at kzhe- he was so nice to me the first time we talked and did buy adds- later passing me to tom jr- a great man --his dad taught him good-

James Mash

#45

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Your loss is shared by us; From the first auction we attended Mr. Tom made us feel welcome and gave the feeling we were all getting acquainted. The last time I got to speak with him was before a highway department auction a while back, and it was more like visiting with an old friend than some business acquaintance. Takes a special man and a special family to create a relationship like he could.

Tommy Galloway

#44

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I have been to the Backgate sale many times over the years, mostly with my brother David. We have had many laughs listening to Mr Tom?s stories, especially the one about having a hot date to get to and binding down the old Farmall tractor to tight and breaking it in half. He will be missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and staff at this difficult time.

May God bless you,
Tommy and Tammy Galloway

William Hamilton

#43

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Tom was a true and trusted man I sure will miss him I have known him since 1971 my heart goes out to all his family I'm sure he will like the way his legacy is being carried on.

Nancy and David Crockett

#42

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

We are so very sorry for your loss. How thankful we are that Tom and Bonnie walked into our world of antiques almost 15 years ago. The charm, the sharp witt, and the ever present twinkle in the eyes brought much laughter and love into our lives over the years. In the peace of quiet moments we will remember the joy of a very special person. Please know we are always here for you. God Bless you and your family.

Stoney and Traci Beene

#41

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I grew up knowing Mr. Tom, going to auctions with my Dad. I have lots of auction memories and Back Gate memories. He was always so nice and helpful to me. He had a limousine drive all the way from Memphis to Hughes, AR to pick myself and Traci(wife) up for my Sr. Prom in 1983! Like I said, always thoughtful and nice. I will miss him and the world needs more people like him, my condolences and prayers to you all!

Mark Nordin

#40

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

God must have needed a auctioneer,he only picks the best.God speed Tom.

Audrey Burtrum-Stanley & Jim Stanley, Jr.

#39

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

As parents, you hope you've instilled honorable qualities in your child - praying they will not be influenced by the bad ways of others and make poor decisions. Our son has worked for the Blackmons. He watched, learned and admired them. Today, he talked of his sadness at Mr. B.'s death; He pondered doing something special for his son, Thomas. Our lad had seen Mr. Blackmon telephone his competition (in the Auction Business) on the morning of their Sale Days. He was wishing them well, expressing friendship and God's blessing on them and their staff. So, on the first- auction-day-Thomas-would-conduct-without-his-Father, our son called him. He wished him a successful day, remind him of their friendship and told him prayers were being said for the family, his staff and for him.

It was meant as an echo of kindness.

Mr Blackmon's earthly life may have come to an end, however his virtues and caring ways are flowing far and continue... Our condolences to all who knew and loved Mr. Blackmon - a good man.

Rose Pittman Pevey

#38

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Went to many auctions with my dad besides growing up with the Blackmon boys and family in DeWitt. Tom and my brother Pete Pittman were friends in School. My thoughts and prayers are with Tom?s family at this time.

Steve Chudy

#37

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Fortunate to have worked for Tom in the 80?s as a RINGMAN he Taught me a lot about Farm Equipment Prayers to Thomas and FAMILY a true HERO to me

John F. Rogers

#36

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

? Ya?ll Ready !!?? ? He was Always the first one ready to hit the road or to start auctioning - I?ve rang more sales in more states, all kinds of weather for him and would do it all again . He was a fine man , who got the most out of everything .

John F. Rogers

#35

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Davy Compton/ Porter Truck Sales

#34

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

2 Timothy 4.7-22

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

My sincere condolences to the Blackmon family.

Rusty Guerra

#33

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

My thoughts and prayers for the Blackmon family-- Tom was larger than life and I always enjoyed my dealings with he and Bonnie. One of my favorite customers of all time!

Jerry Dwayne Duvall

#32

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

My Condolence To Thomas and Family I Bought My first John Deere Tractor from Blackmon Auction 1972 and Still own it it was always a thrill to attend the Blackmon Auction and visit with Tom he was a very Special Person and made everyone feel Special I will Miss Him Prays for the Family.

Libbie Terry Dougan

#31

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I am from St. Charles, Arkansas. Tom dated my sister Julie, when they were teenagers! My Daddy, Walton Terry and Mr. Eddie went to Ouachita together. Daddy always said that he learned early on, to not shoot craps with Mr. Eddie! Tom and Bonnie and I went to Immanuel together, for many years. My husband, Bo Dougan and I farmed and ranched, for years. I still do. Tom was one of a kind! We all loved him. Bo and I bought lots of equipment at Blackmon Auctions. Thank you all, for sharing Tom, with all of us. I figure that Tom in his Stetson hat and cowboy boots, is laughing with Bo, in his Stetson and cowboy boots, and discussing old times!! Libbie

Roy Don and Crystal Simpson

#30

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Blackmon family. We all have a Tom Blackmon story and his memory will live on with all of us.

John Saugey

#29

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Tom was inducted into the Arkansas Auctioneers Association Hall of fame in 1988 and was a mentor to many an Auctioneer. I met him in 1986, and always looked forward to the next time that we could visit for a few minutes. He was just that kind of guy. He will truly be missed.
My family sends our heart felt condolences and prayers to the Blackmon family and Auction employees.

John, Phyllis, Terry & Betty Saugey

Roger Huntsman

#28

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I?ve known Tom for forty years and can truly say my admiration and respect for him has only grown through the years
Tom was one of the hardest working men I ever met. Yet he always had time for a phone call or advise that to me was good as gold. He was a wonderful friend and mentor.

Randy Richards

#27

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I always enjoyed Tom?s stories, he was a shining soul to all
who knew him and will be greatly missed, my thoughts and
Prayers go out to the family in this hour of loss, Randy Richards

Mike Berg

#26

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Rest In Peace Tom

Cody Adgent

#25

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Mr Tom was a breath of fresh air in the auction business & was a highlight of my yearly trip to the Backgate event. I cherish my talks with him & will always remember the words of advice and wisdom he always offered. God speed friend

Janet Watkins

#24

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

My Dad was Alvin Smith. He worked for Tom many years. In fact he was buried in his gray Blackmon Jacket with white shirt and tie. He loved Tom and Bonnie They were very good to my Family. A fine fine man. So sorry

Rose Stone

#23

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I always enjoyed talking with Tom when he came in our office. He had such a wonderful personality. I know he will be missed by all.

Janet Watkins

#22

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

James H and Rustin Glover

#21

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Our deepest condolences, Tom was a great man and a wonderful friend. God bless your family.

Danny Keene

#20

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

What a giant of a man! He has truly enriched my life, and this began with the first time I met him and had our first conversation. He taught me so much by just watching him interact with people as he conducted our ARDOT auctions. What a legacy he is leaving as well!! Tom will surely be missed. Thomas, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your wonderful family.

James (Jimbo) Adams Jr.

#19

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I could stay and listen to him auction all day long and never get tired of it. I thought the world of him and so did my late grandfather James Adams. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Randi Bryant

#18

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I am truly saddened for the loss your family is enduring. My thought and prayers are with you all.

Bob and Ed's Heating and Air

#17

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

With deepest sympathy for your loss. The family is in our thoughts and prayers.
The staff of Bob and Ed's

Judy McKennon Porter

#16

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Tom was very dear to the McKennon family. Prayers for the family at this time.

Gary Carpenter

#15

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Scott Schuh

#14

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Condolences to the Blackmon family on the loss of Tom, Sr. I'll always remember and appreciate the respect and relationship that my old direct mail firm had with Tom in mailing out hundreds of thousands of auction notices years ago. He was a delight to work with and Tom was always in his boots and Stetson hat during our visits. I know he will be greatly missed by all.

Vicky Sanders Morris

#13

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Mr. Blackmon was one of a kind. A true, integrity filled businessman that was down to earth and good to all. He was charming with a warm smile and always in good spirits. I had the privilege of working with him and his son, who is a dear friend to me, for a short time and the experience was good. A wonderful family. Tom will be greatly missed.

Chuck vardaman

#12

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Tom Blackmon never met a stranger , meant it when he said it , and helped when he could - because he had been on both sides in his lifetime. To see who he was all you need do is take a look at his family. He will be missed.

Ben Still

#11

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Happy trails old friend.

Jerome Mitchell

#10

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Grace and peace to you and your family from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May HE keep, hold and comfort each of you through your time of mourning. May HIS name, also, be a source of strength and healing. AMEN!!!

Katie Simpson Sollars

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Tom Blackmon was always full of smiles and laughter! I spent my childhood knowing that in February each year we would get to go see him and get to climb up in the auction truck and get a big hug. The best memories were the few years I was able to work along side my dad helping at the ?Backgate Sale? and getting to deliver some peanut brittle to Tom from my grandmother. After dad passed away the sale days ended for me but I always knew if we ever needed anything he was a phone call away! Prayers for your family and he will be missed!

Perry and Kay Simpson (Garland's son)

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Prayer are with the family. He will sure be missed and remembered!

James Johnson

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I first met Tom in 1984 when I first began my farming career. During the early years I attended many of his auctions and purchased the vast majority of my equipment through his auction company. I was amazed that in later years he would still call me by name every time he saw me in the crowd even when it might have been several years since I had last attended one of his auctions. He was a fine gentleman that will be missed both personally and professionally.

Johnny and Melinda Skinner

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

We are so sorry to here about Mr Tom my husband has told me many stories about Mr Tom over the years . We are so sorry for the loss I?m sure he will be missed by many . (Doc) Johnny would always look for Mr Tom when we would attend a sale .God Bless your whole family.

Angela Adams Flippo

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

My deepest sympathy goes out to the Blackmon family. My dad, Bobby Adams, thought the world of Tom. When I was a little girl, I loved going to the auctions with my dad. I looked forward to being asked to carry the tickets back and forth from the truck to the office and Mr. Blackmon would embarrass me over the microphone. I still have a beautiful red Bible story book that I put out every Christmas that was given to me by Tom and Jim?s mother. Your family has been a blessing to my family and I am forever grateful. Sending our love to you!

Angela Adams Flippo, Walnut Ridge
Bobby D. Adams, Trumann
Alicia Adams Everhart, Trumann

Brady madden

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I bet he has already sold something in heaven, go rest high on that mountain ole buddy your work is done and what a great job you did, we will miss you dearly and hearing stories about my grandpa, sincerely #9

James Thweatt

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

My condolences and love to all the Blackmon family during this time. May you find peace in your memories of Tom.

Steve and Donna Brown

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Tom was a good boss and a fine man. He is missed.

Angel Dean/Tim Jordan's Truck Parts

Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

I met Tom back in 1999 when he came here to do a Auction for Tim. I truly enjoyed meeting him. Tom was lively and could really keep a crowd going. He was friendly and so easy to talk to. I remember Tim had shirts made with our name on them, Well they misspelled my name. They put Angle on it and Tom called me Angle the whole time that they were here. Everybody laughed and so did I.

May you all know that you have my deepest sympathy. May you have the peace of God in your hearts.

Sincerely,
Angel Dean

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