Helen F. Blackard

Helen F. Blackard, 84, of Pekin, IL passed away at 10:03 AM Monday, May 03, 2021 at UnityPoint Health Pekin Hospital. Helen was born on January 18, 1937 in Peoria, Illinois to Robert B. and Hazel F. (Bartholomew) Gorgas. She married Billy Blackard on September 26, 1955. He passed away on April 21, 2005. Also preceding her in death are her parents; one son David A. Blackard; and two sisters, Caroline Gorgas and Marie Carrington. Surviving are: one son, Gary J. (Jennifer) Blackard of Farmington; two daughters, Teresa L. Blackard and Nena M. (Steve) Clark both of Pekin; eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, eight great-great grandchildren; and one daughter-in-law, Valerie Blackard of Aurora. Helen was of the Baptist faith. She was a member of American Legion Auxiliary 1234. She loved to quilt and was an avid reader. A visitation will be held from 4:00 6:00 pm on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory. Cremation will be accorded following the visitation. A gathering meal will be held immediately following the visitation for family and friends at 6 Pilgrim Court, Pekin, IL. Memorial contributions may be made to TAPS No-Kill Animal Shelter, 100 TAPS Ln, Pekin, IL 61554. Visitation Wednesday, May 5, 2021 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,Illinois 61554