Jonathan Kerry Blackwood, age 78 of Mentone, passed away on February 16, 2026 at his residence. Mr. Blackwood was born on June 30, 1947 in Memphis, TN to the late Jimmie & Alese Blalock Blackwood. Jonathan attended public schools in Fayette County, Tennessee. After graduation he attended Tennessee Tech University where he received a degree in History. He then transferred to the University of Memphis where he received his Juris Doctor. Mr. Blackwood began his legal career as an Assistant DA in the State of Tennessee for 10 years before becoming the Circuit Judge for the 25th Judicial District covering five counties in East Tennessee for 20 years. He then became Senior Judge for 10 years, covering all 95 counties, until his retirement.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Julia Jarrell Blackwood; brother & sister-in-law, William Steven & Helen Blackwood of Lisbon, Portugal; sisters & brothers-in-law, Brenda & Wayne Keller of Maryville, TN, and Beverly & Randy Smith of Jacksonville, FL; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmie & Alese Blackwood; and nephew, Benjamin Smith.
