It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce the passing of Jerry Dean Blackwell of Lancaster, SC, a man who truly lived life out loud. He was the son of the late Geraldine Mackey Blackwell of Lancaster, SC and Fred Phillips of Kershaw, SC.

He was known for his big personality, booming laughter, his love of Hot Rods, NASCAR (Raise Hell, Praise Dale) and his obsession with Big Foot. You could find him at his local hangout, R & G Sporting Goods or a friend’s house, with a cold Budweiser, a Marlboro between his lips and a story to tell.

In his younger years, he chased adrenaline and freedom, racing cars and riding motorcycles with a fearless passion. The road and the track were where he felt most alive, and those who knew him will never forget his love for speed and adventure.

Jerry and his late brother, Roger had a special bond. Both running towards danger for the fun of it, chasing the rush right off the end of Springmaid Pier. As he got older, Jerry spent more time chasing balls on a golf course with Roger and his nephews, Ian and Brandon, enjoying the moments of laughter, competition and brotherhood.

He had a rare gift for friendship. To Jerry, friends were family. He loved fiercely, showed up when it mattered, and left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to know him. He leaves behind many loyal friends, two of which Jerry considered his brothers, Robert (Mike) Brazzell of Lancaster, SC and Richard William (Smiley) Dobson of Great Falls, SC.

Though he may be gone, his laughter echoes in our memories, his stories live on in our hearts, and his spirit reminds us all to live a little louder.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. He leaves behind his nieces Stephanie Marie Brown and Donna Faye Wiggins of Hartsville, SC. His nephews Brandon Shane Blackwell of Florence, SC and Ian Casey Blackwell of Summerville, SC.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Geraldine Mackey Blackwell, his oldest brother, Kenneth (Bull) Blackwell both of Lancaster, SC and his brother, Roger (Rabbit) Blackwell of Hartsville, SC.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 4, 2026, in the Chapel of Burgess Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 1:00pm to 2:00pm, one hour prior to the service.