Eva D. "Deenie" (Sherman) Blackford, age 81, went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, August 8, 2024. Eva was born on February 27, 1943, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to her parents, George and Margaret "Peggy" Sherman.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 32 years, Tom Blackford, Sr.; her long-time companion, Tom FitzGerald; her sister, Sandie Featherly; and her nephew, Fred Featherly.

Surviving are her children, Tom (Bobbie) Blackford, Jr., Matt Blackford; 4 grandchildren, Tommy III, Ally, Emma and Jackson Blackford; sister, Marge (Frank) Eimer; nieces and nephews, Dawn Featherly, Angie Featherly, Brett (Stephanie) Gardner; and goddaughter, Robin Matice-Butzer.

Eva had a passion for her family, friends, shopping, reading and cooking. She loved to entertain friends and family, and she always set a beautiful dinner table and cooked delicious meals. She took pride in her work as a medical assistant and retired from her longtime career at Macy's.

Please join Eva's family for visitation at Zaagman Memorial Chapel (2800 Burton St. SE) on Sunday, August 11, 4-7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, August 12, at St. Paul the Apostle Parish (2750 Burton St. SE) with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Private family entombment at Resurrection Cemetery.

Please consider making a memorial donation in Eva's name to honor the care her grandson and family received at Ronald McDonald House Charities – Tampa Bay (https://rmhctampabay.org/).