Joseph Dewey Blackburn

Joseph Dewey Blackburn, formerly of Iona, Idaho, passed away at the age of 39 on September 4, 2023, in Roxboro, North Carolina. He was a devoted husband, loving father, beloved son, brother, and friend. 

Joseph was born on March 20, 1984, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Chad and Marlene Blackburn. He was welcomed into the family by his older brother, Nathan Chad, and his three older sisters, Nyla, Shawnel, and Emily, and was blessed with his baby sister, Shelley, six years later. Raised in Southeast Idaho, he had access to never-ending resources and opportunities to satisfy his curiosity for life, love for nature, and his obsession with reptiles.

As a teenager, he set school records in track and field, loved BMX biking, and enjoyed skateboarding, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, and he especially enjoyed teasing his siblings.

On May 10, 2003, Joseph married the love of his life, Rachael Ann Heileson. They made Iona their home and had six beautiful children: Carter Dewey, Collin Joseph, Kimball Cole, Krew Charles, Kara Ann, and Chloe Vilate.

He found great joy in helping others and always talked about changing the world and making a difference. One of his favorite lines recently was, "You know everything is going to be okay, right?" 

He loved his family deeply, especially his sweet wife and kids. Always a kid at heart, he shared that gift with those around him and found so much happiness in playing with his children. He also loved serving with his wife in the Primary Nursery at church.

Joseph was amazingly talented and a perfectionist in any project or job that he took on. He became an excellent craftsman, and as a perfect team, he and his wife designed and built their beautiful home in Iona. He took great care with the build and added an artistic touch to all the finishing work, especially the beautiful cabinetry, fireplace mantel, and trim.

Being in nature with his family and friends was his favorite way to spend time. We are so grateful for all of the unforgettable memories of good times, endless pranks and adventures. His smile and laugh would light up the room, and his hugs were so incredibly wonderful.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife, their six wonderful children, his mother, and his five siblings.

He is preceded in death by his father.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 16, 2023, at the Iona Stake Center, 7555 North 55th East. The family will visit with friends Friday from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 South Ammon Road, and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will follow.