Rev. Gerald Blackburn

Reverend Gerald Blackburn passed peacefully at his home on Sunday, January 30, 2022 surrounded by family. He was born in Gainesville Georgia to Franklin and Artie Blackburn. Gerald graduated from Forsyth County High School in 1958 and went on to marry his wife of 63 years, Sue.

Gerald and Sue raised all 3 of their children in Cumming where he served as the first Park and Recreations director after being appointed by Mayor Ford Gravitt and the City Council. In 1986 Mayor Gravitt and the City Council went on to appoint him as first City Administrator of Cumming. He served in this role until retiring on December 31^st, 2017. Rev. Blackburn also served as pastor at several local churches in Forsyth County from April of 1988 to July of 2014. 

Survived by wife Sue Blackburn, daughter and son in law Robin & Mike Sweat, son and daughter in law Shane & Kristi Blackburn, son and daughter in law Kiwp & Chrissy Blackburn. Grandchildren Chase (Carey) Sweat, Lucas Sweat (fiancé Katharine), Emma (John Tyler Cobb), Anna Blackburn, Cash Blackburn (fiancé Bethany), Carlie Blackburn, Casen Blackburn, & Lydia Blackburn and great grandchildren Thea & Palmer Sweat & John Payne Cobb. Sister Patsy Benson also survives, along with many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at 2:00 PM, in the chapel of Ingram Funeral Home with Rev. Michael Millwood, Rev. Shad Faulkner, and Deacon Sammy Redd officiating.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, between the hours of 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM, and again from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM, on Wednesday from 9:00 AM until the hour of service.

The family extends a special thanks to the nurses and staff at Agape Hospice. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made.

Beaver Ruin Baptist Church

Attn: Loyd Shadburn

2795 Spot Rd.

Cumming, GA 30028

Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory, Cumming, Georgia in charge of arrangements.