Fuquay-Varina – Mattie Lee Blackburn, 73, passed away Tuesday, January 4, 2011. A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 7 at 1:00 p.m. at Thomas Funeral Home Chapel. Inurnment will follow the service at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

Mrs. Blackburn was preceded in death by her parents, Turlington A. and Louise F. Lee.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Blackburn; son, Ramey Powell of Raleigh; daughters, Julye Graham and husband, Charles and Jennie Elias and husband, Jerry all of Raleigh; grandsons, Tony and Alex Elias; sister. Becky Williford and husband, Lewis of Fuquay-Varina; nieces, Shannon Tarpey and Samantha Williford; 4 great nieces and nephews also survive.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. on Friday at Thomas Funeral Home and other times at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 10005 Lake Wheeler Road, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at www.thomasfuneral.com