Mildred Louise "Sister" Blackshear

Mildred Louise “Sister” Blackshear, age 68, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 25, 2016 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center on the blessed day of Good Friday. At the time of her passing, those she loved the most were by her side. Born in Utica on March 31, 1947, Mildred was the daughter of the late Willie “Bill”, Sr. and Bernice (Martin) Blackshear. Raised and educated locally, she graduated from Utica Free Academy/Class of 1965. Mildred and her high school sweetheart, Albert Hill, shared in a longtime relationship and in 1977 they married. They knew each other’s hearts and were loyal to the end. Mildred’s working career was diversified and rewarding. She began at the General Electric Company on French Road. In subsequently she worked for the J.C. Penney Department Store. For over 36 years Mildred had been a loyal employee of the Utica City School District; during the school year she was a Teacher’s Assistant and during the summer months she monitored the care of the playground and was a daycare provider to those entrusted to her. She was truly loved by coworkers and children alike. Mildred was genuine in her spirituality, selflessness, and compassion. When she was sought out for her advice and guidance, she spoke from her heart. She was blessed with a gracious smile and the ability to embrace everyone’s needs. She loved her grandchildren and helped to raise them. She also opened her heart to a special relationship with her grandchildren Mark Brooks, and Cahsim. In years past, Mildred made many memories singing and dancing with her siblings. She loved holidays, picnics, and her “Aunt Ethel’s pepper steaks”! She enjoyed games of chance at the Casino and nail manicures with her special aunt, Helen Wilson. Mildred’s heart and hands were made for praying, and God orchestrated her life. She worshipped at the St. Matthew Temple Church of God in Christ, where she served on the Hospitality Committee. Mildred is survived by her children’s father and best friend, AJ; her children and their loves, Mildred “Poochie” Hill, Thelma and Kevin Lockhart, Albert Hill, Donelle “Donny” and Lakeshia Hill, and Tina “Matree” Hill; her 11 grandchildren; and her 3 great-grandchildren. She was so proud of her siblings and held a great love for them: Thelma Porter, Robert and Josephine Blackshear, Sr., Louise Blackshear, Bernice and Theodore Brown, Walter and Faith Blackshear, Mary Blackshear and Steve, Edward Blackshear, and Julius and Kathie Blackshear; her sisters in-law, Marie Smith, Diane Blackshear, Mable Blackshear, Juanita Wallace, and Naomi Hill. She will also be remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, especially Pastor Jimmie Griffin; her aunts, Annabelle Dorsey and Nellie Yarbough, and one uncle Richard Frank. She also shared a special bond with each of her dear friends, Annie Mae Smith, Christine Dobrzenski, and Linda Washburn. She was predeceased by her brothers, James Blackshear, Richard Blackshear, Matthew Blackshear, and William Blackshear; her sister, Gloria Blackshear; and her nieces, Bernice Blackshear, III, and Karen Blackshear; and her nephew, Andre Blackshear Ward. The family would like to thank various staff members of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, the ICU, especially Mike; the dietary staff with special mention of Peter Starowicz, Mia Santiago, Marilyn LaBarbera, and Chef Jim Hockersmith, and the 6th floor especially Danielle, Michele, and Rachael; the 3C nurses and staff at St. Elizabeth Medical Center; Dr. Odunsi from Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Her spirits were lifted each day that her granddaughters Caleigh and Caydence came to visit her. The special spiritual bond she shared with her cousin, Rev. Jimmie Griffin was of great meaning to her. During this time of difficulty and sadness, the Blackshear family found great comfort from the companionship of Derrick George who they love as family. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 5:00-8:00 at the St. Matthew Temple Church of God in Christ at 110 Washington St. Floral offerings are graciously accepted. For those wishing to make a memorial contribution, please consider Team Blackshear for the annual American Heart Run & Walk; envelopes will be available at the service. Mildred’s funeral service and Home Going Celebration will commence on Thursday morning at 11:00 at St. Matthew Temple Church of God in Christ with her cousin, Rev. Jimmie Griffin, officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in New Forest Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mildred Louise "Sister" Blackshear

March 31, 1947 - March 25, 2016