John Nixon Blackman III passed away on July 27 at the age of 88. He was married to Margaret for 66 years and they raised three sons. He is survived by his wife Margaret and brother Jim Blackman, and son Mark and son Matt and wife Melanie and daughter in law Keri Blackman. His grandchildren

Mark Blackman II, Liz Mixon and husband Kyle, John Blackman V and wife Blakely, Joshua Blackman, Taylor Cornwell and husband Zachary, Lindsey Blackman and surrogate granddaughters Jaime Monica and husband Michael and Alysa Harden and husband Matt. He has nineteen great grandchildren.

John taught for 42 years in public schools and Odessa college. He served as a principal and a football coach, but his love was the classroom. His last 11 years of teaching were in Eskimo villages on the North Slope of Alaska.

He was an active Boy Scout leader and formed an Explorer troop. He took many students camping, exploring, and backpacking in Big Bend and the Pecos Wilderness. He lectured for CDRI, the Buffalo Trails Scout Ranch, tour buses and schools. His knowledge of biology, geology, anthropology, astronomy, and history served him well. His relatives called him a walking encyclopedia. He interested young and old alike with his stories and facts.

After retirement he and his wife traveled extensively. They especially enjoyed museums and zoos. Every trip to San Antonio included a visit to the Alamo. So many of his students have kept in touch all these years and have credited him with not only teaching science but life skills as well. John loved to read, go hiking, and play with his great grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held on August 19 at 2 p.m. at the Jeff Davis County Community Center at 601 Cemetery Rd, Fort Davis.