William Blackwell, Jr. was born in Parsons, KS October 29, 1941, to William Sr. and Mildred Blackwell, both preceded him in death. He grew up in a very small town where his family trained gray hounds for racing purposes.  They raised chickens and grew fresh fruits and vegetables. After graduating from high school he continued his education by completing his Bachelor Degree in Physical Education at Pittsburgh State University. This is where he became a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.  It was also there that he met the love of his life, Brenda Joyce Schuler. They united in holy matrimony March 1, 1964.  They then moved to Kansas City, KS where William furthered his college education by obtaining a Master Degree in Physical Education and a barber's license. Not long after being license William established a small barber shop where he mastered the craft. This license would later save his family from costly visits to the salon. As he became the official family barber. People would often ask his wife and daughter who cut their hair, left in amazement after finding out who was behind the skilled work.  He also taught adult education for the KCMO School District for many years. William had a very strong work ethic, his family had to literally force him to retire when he became of age. He was a man of very few emotions and words, but when he spoke it was very profound. He was known for his famous phrase "Be Cool" which described his laid back demeanor perfectly. He rarely complained about anything that came his way, in his view the cup was always half full.

He was a sports fanatic, whether the sport being basketball, football, baseball, or tennis he enjoyed them all. His favorite pro basketball team was Golden State Warriors, hands down. He taught a number of girls/boys basketball and Health & Education and boys football at various schools in the Kansas City Metro Area. He had a unique way of leading those who others labelled as "underdogs" with hard work and dedication straight to the championship. He touched many lives with his coaching leadership, this was evident as he became a local celebrity, better known as Coach Blackwell.

He adored his family. He especially loved his bride, Brenda Joyce Blackwell, who stayed by his side until he took his very last breath.  Their life long marriage of 54 years, was filled with love and true friendship that many only dream about. The two were inseparable, if you saw one the other was close behind.  They truly enjoyed spending time together.   They raised three children, Eric Anthony Blackwell, Brian Keith Blackwell, and Belinda Joy Blackwell Moore.

William was a man of strong faith, he stood strong in his faith in God until the end. His smile, kind gestures, and words of encouragement will be forever cherished by many. The love he showed towards others will truly be missed on this side of Heaven. So blessed we got him on loan for 76 wonderful years.  Can't wait to see him again.

He is survived by: his wife, Brenda Blackwell; sons, Eric Blackwell (Donna) and Brian Blackwell Sr.; daughter, Belinda Moore (Andre Sr.); grandchildren, Brian Blackwell Jr. (Ana Lopez), Jordyn Blackwell, Andre Moore Jr., Amya Moore, Tyler Blackwell, Tyler Ferguson, great-grandchildren, Nicole Blackwell and Natalie Blackwell and a host of other relatives and friends.

Service for Mr. Blackwell will be held 2:00 P. M. Friday, October 5, 2018, at E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel.  Private Disposition.  Friends may call from 12:00 P.M. until service time Friday at the chapel.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc .