Baird-Freeman Funeral Home

221 North Meridian

Portland, Indiana 47371

260-726-7171

Ralph L. Blackford, age 90, of Portland passed away Saturday February 18, 2023 at his residence.  He was born in Union City, Indiana on August 26, 1932 the son of Raymond and Barbara (Stroble) Blackford.  He was married on September 7, 1958 to Susan K. Beard and she passed away on December 28, 2018.  Ralph retired in 1976 after a career in the US Coast Guard.  He was a 1951 Portland High School graduate, served in the US Navy during Korea and Vietnam, member of West Walnut Street Church of Christ, American Legion Post #211, Kiwanis Club and US Coast Guard C.P.O. Association.  He had also worked at the Jay County Hospital in supply.

Surviving are one son David Blackford (wife Jennifer) of Portland, one daughter Barbara Caster (husband Bill) of Portland, one sister Janice Bray (husband Clyde) of Portland, Five grandsons Patrick, Garhett, Matthew, Brian and Michael, Six great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by brothers Paul, Gary and Keith Blackford and a sister Mary Dailey.

Funeral services will be Friday February 24, 2023 at 10:30 AM in the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home with Pastors Gil Alicea and Darrell Borders presiding.  Burial will follow in the Green Park Cemetery with military graveside rites by American Legion Post #211.  Visitation will be Thursday from 3:00 – 7:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to West Walnut Street Church of Christ or Everheart Hospice.

Online condolences at www.bairdfreeeman.com