Joseph Warren Blackmon of Athens, Georgia died in Atlanta, February 12, 2021 from complications following heart surgery.

Born March 21, 1948 in Washington, GA, Warren grew up in Thomson, GA. He was the son of the late William Fred Blackmon and Lucy Warren Marston Blackmon. Warren graduated from Thomson High School, where he was an Eagle Scout; earned varsity letters in football, basketball, and tennis; and was Senior class President.

Upon completion of two years at Young Harris College he graduated from what is now Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville. After spending 20 years in banking, he moved to Athens, GA in the early 1990’s. Ever the entrepreneur, Warren owned several businesses with a focus on loans, real estate, and property development.

Warren loved Athens and was a devoted Georgia Bulldog fan. He took particular pride in having friends from different walks of life, and especially respected the employees of Athens-Clarke County, with whom he worked (and sometimes sparred) in the course of his many business activities. Although a big-hearted, generous soul, Warren took delight in playing the role of contrarian especially in business and politics.

Warren is survived by his son William Dandridge “Dan” Blackmon (Courtney) of Columbia, SC and grandson William Dandridge “Ridge” Blackmon, Jr.; sister, Virginia Dennis (Bobby) of Buena Vista, GA; brother Fred Blackmon, Jr. (Jean) of Roswell, GA. In addition, he is survived by nieces and nephews Katherin Smith (Eddie), Chris Blackmon (Maura), Kirk Blackmon (Heather) and Jessica Engram (Tim). He was predeceased by his daughter Elizabeth Kershaw “Betsy” Blackmon. 

At his request, Warren was cremated, and his ashes will be scattered at the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River. A celebration of life will be planned post-pandemic. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Young Harris College General Scholarship Fund or to Nuci’s Space in Athens, GA- both places were dear to Warren’s heart.