Ronald Edward Blackmon

Ronald "Ron" Edward Blackmon, 77, peacefully entered his heavenly home on December 6, 2024. A beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Ron's legacy is defined by his devotion to family, unwavering work ethic, and kindhearted spirit.

Ron is survived by his cherished wife of 55 years, Carol Somich Blackmon; his daughters, Angie (Jamie) Thomas and Kim McHugh; his treasured grandchildren, Caroline Thomas, Sarah Thomas, Keenan Lee McHugh, Delaney McHugh, Rhett Thomas, Ellis Anne McHugh, and Cannon McHugh. Known lovingly as "PopPop”, Ron brought joy and laughter to his grandchildren, sharing special moments like cooking breakfast during sleepovers, attending their dance recitals, cheerleading on the sidelines, t-ball, softball, baseball, volleyball, soccer, gymnastics, basketball and football games.

Ron is also survived by his sister, Cheryl (Doug) Bonham; nieces, Amy Cox and Samantha (Derek) Linderman; his brother, Allen (Carrie) Blackmon and niece, Alicia (Parker) Duke.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jettie Lee Blackmon and Betty Annell Blackmon; son-in-law, Brandon McHugh, nephews, Cory and Clint Blackmon and his beloved lab, Napoleon.

In his younger years, Ron enjoyed boating on the Alabama River with family and friends, cooking and sharing meals, and racing motorcycles and micro midgets. As a member of the National Modified Midget Association, he especially relished the thrill of winning his races. He later found joy in watching NASCAR, but his greatest pride was always his family.

Ron graduated from Albert G. Parrish High School in 1965, where he played sports and earned the prestigious Eagle Scout Award. He went on to graduate from Auburn University in 1971 with a degree in Business Administration.

After college, Ron began his career in insurance before transitioning to the HVAC industry, working at Selma Tin Shop and eventually founding Ron Blackmon's Quality Air, Inc., Selma’s exclusive Carrier dealer. His dedication and innovative service model were encapsulated in his company’s well-known jingle: “Ron’s Not Comfortable Until You Are.” Over the years, Quality Air earned numerous awards, allowing Ron and Carol to travel extensively. He also operated a Roto-Rooter franchise for 13 years and was a respected member of the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors and the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).

Ron was a longtime member of Elkdale Baptist Church, where he taught an adult Sunday school class for over 20 years, sharing his faith and uplifting spirit. Even in his final days, Ron continued to encourage and inspire those around him.

Ron will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his warmth, generosity, and passion for life.

A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at Elkdale Baptist Church on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. with Bro. Ferrell Ford officiating and Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma directing. The service will be live streamed on Elkdale Baptist Church’s Facebook page. Interment will follow at New Live Oak Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 9:00 a.m., prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be Jamie Thomas, Rhett Thomas, Henry Atchison, Henry Helms, Tony Kaldor and Mike Smith.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to Elkdale Baptist Church or your favorite charity in his name.