Nicholas Stephen Blackford, 78, of De Soto died July 1, 2024. Mr. Blackford was a member of De Soto Elks Lodge 689 where he was a past exalted ruler. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in De Soto, was a 3rd Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 1185 of De Soto and was a 30-year booster of the Amvets Post 48. He enjoyed playing golf, drinking cocktails, barbeque grilling, spending winters in Texas with friends and spending time with his family. Born July 23, 1945, in St. Louis, he was the son of the late Wilma Ruth (Stubblefield) and Joe Blackford.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years: Mary Ann Blackford of De Soto; two sons: Tony (Wendi) Blackford of Fenton and Jason (Josie) Blackford of Hillsboro; two stepdaughters: Paula Boynton of De Soto and Laura Holyoke of Moscow, Idaho; a brother: Paul (Diane) Blackford of Sebastian, Fla.; three sisters: Pat Cromwell of Mt. Home, Ark., Rusty Chalcraft of Mt. Home, Ark., and Kathy Harold of Byrnes Mill; three grandchildren; Romni (Bryan) Henneman, Caleb Heywood and Logan Blackford; a great-grandson on the way; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by a brother: Greg Blackford; a sister: Cecelia Smith; and a grandson: Tanner Boynton.
Services were held July 6 at the Mahn Funeral Home in De Soto, officiated by Deacon Ed Boyer. Memorials may be made to the Tanner Boynton Scholarship Fund or the 2nd Chance Ranch of High Ridge, 272 Hillsboro Road, in High Ridge, 63049. Arrangements were under the direction of Mahn Funeral Home.