It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Bart Langston Blackwell, 56, of Fayetteville. He passed away suddenly on Tuesday, August 7, 2018.
Bart was born in Fayetteville, and attended Fayetteville High School before enlisting in the Air Force. He was stationed in Crete, Greece, where he earned the rank of Sargent, together with several decorations including the Air Force Commendation Medal. He returned home, graduated from the U of A, and then set about a new life of music, warmth, and loyalty to his family, friends and beloved pets.
While stationed in Crete, Bart picked up the guitar, and thereafter never sat it down. He spent much of his remaining years playing guitar in local bands, teaching guitar to anyone who dared show an interest, and – those who love him know – playing guitar at home, surrounded by his cherished pets. In this way, Bart did quietly and with humility devote much of his life to spreading music to others, with the unspoken hope that within it others might find the joy he knew.
Bart was predeceased by his mother, Bonnie Blackwell (Guinn); father, Coy Max Blackwell; and stepfather, Jack Guinn. He leaves to mourn two sisters, Cheryl (Larry) Hughes and Brenda Blackwell-Bruce; two step-sisters, Elizabeth Guinn (Miller) and Deborah Guinn (Shaffer); as well as several cousins, friends, nieces (including Maleah and Erin Hughes) and nephews (including Coleson Bruce).
A celebration of his life for family and friends will be held Monday, August. 13, 2018 from 6PM-8PM at Beard’s Funeral Chapel (855 S Happy Hollow Rd, Fayetteville).
Like many great musicians, Bart left us too soon, but not without first gifting us his music, warmth, and love. You will remain forever in our hearts.
Tell me, How have you been?
We all have missed you, And the way you grin
The day is necessary, Every now and then
For souls to move on, Given life back again
Fly on, Fly on, Fly on my friend
Go on, Go on and live again, Love again
Cause day after day, Night after night
Sittin’ here singin’, every, every minute
As the years go passin’ by, by, by, by
A long look in the mirror, We come face to face
Wishin’ our love we took for granted
A love we had yesterday, Cause Life Without You
All the love, you’ve passed our way
Angels have waited, for so long
Now they have their way
Take your place….
“Life Without You”
– Stevie Ray Vaughan
You were such a special soul I adored you and I am SO thankful we had time to goof off in this much to stressful life Fly Free music man ~~
I was fortunate to meet Bart, but I only knew him for a short time. I loved the light that shown from within him. He was so good to everyone, and all the furry beings too. I am so happy that I had a chance to experience his positive presence. He will be missed by everyone that knew him. His family and friends have all my love and sympathy. -Kayla
Ever since knowing Bart from Jr. High through High School and beyond, he has spread much joy, peace, and much happiness! R. I. L. Bart.
Bart you were such a good friend and making everyone around you feel cared about and always lots of laughter. You will be greatly missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. God Bless
Bart was a wonderful person with a huge heart. To watch him play his music was a true joy. He loved making people laugh, his animals, and playing his music. He enjoyed making things and you never knew what he was going to come up with but you could bet it was going to be fun if that was a possibility.
Love and prayers. So sorry for your loss
Cheryl and Brenda, I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for peace to you all.
Lynda
rest in peace bart you will be missed
Brenda, Cheryl, and family: Randy and I are so saddened by your loss. Bart always had a smile on his face whenever we saw him. He was such a pleasant guy to be around. I know you all will miss him so much. He lives in your hearts, so you’ll always have him there. Brenda and Randy Burgess
Bart you will be greatly missed. With that goofy smile and crazy laugh you knew how to light up a room. Keep playing your music
I have known Bart since the late seventies and he always had a smile on his face and a song in his heart every time we had the opportunity to cross each other’s paths. Rest easy my friend and know that you will be missed.
Bart, I was shocked when I heard of your passing. You were a funny guy that made me laugh in school and when you remodeled for Ray and me. You were a talented guy in many areas. I will always remember you painting the front door and looking out to see you petting one of our dogs. You did have a kind soul.