Eugene Thomas Blackford

Eugene Thomas (Tuck) Blackford, aged 90, of Nicholasville, Kentucky, passed away on January 18, 2026, at the VA Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky. Born in Nicholasville, he was the son of the late Eugene Dee and Willie Madeline Boggs Blackford. He was preceded in death by his brothers, James William Blackford and John Perry Blackford, his sisters-in-law June Teater Blackford and Terry Ashcraft, and his grandson Wendell Conner Blackford.

Eugene is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Mary Jean Ashcraft Blackford. He is also survived by his brother Richard (Marie), sister-in-law Joyce Blackford, brother-in-law Herb Ashcraft, daughter Jane Clifford (Ben), sons Eugene Douglas (Amy) and Robert Shelby Blackford. He was the proud grandfather of Shelby Clifford Wright (Noah), Lincoln Clifford (Abbey), Barron Thomas and Mason Blackford, Ali Dubbels (Spencer), and cherished great-granddaughters Avery Belle Wright and Seveah Katherine Dubbels. Eugene leaves behind beloved nieces and nephews.

Affectionately known as “Tuck,” Eugene retired from IBM Lexington. He was a lifelong member of Nicholasville Methodist Church and a proud United States Navy Veteran. He was assigned to the USS Macon, and it was there that he met Jim Wagoner (Londa) from Lexington, who became his “bonus brother” and friend. They spent their Navy career together and have been friends for 70 years.

Tuck was devoted to his family and cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren. He took immense pride in caring for his yard and home and was known for his skill in refinishing hardwood floors, a craft taught to him by his father. His strong work ethic and dedication to family have left an impression on all who knew him.

In accordance with Tuck’s wishes, a graveside service is scheduled for Monday, February 2, at 11:00 a.m. at Camp Nelson National Cemetery. with Brother Bill Bales officiating. Pallbearers will be his grandsons, and nephews Jim and Rick Blackford, Mark Wilson, and Glen Borders. Honorary bearers will be Jim Wagoner, Herb Ashcraft, John Mays and his “breakfast buddies” at Hardees and McDonalds.

After the burial, a luncheon and time of remembrance for family and friends will take place at Nicholasville Methodist Church led by Pastor Tim Thompson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Wreaths Across America Camp Nelson, P. O. Box 910264, Lexington, KY, or Backpack Ministry, Nicholasville Methodist Church, 303 W. Maple Street, Nicholasville, KY 40356

This obituary was lovingly submitted by his family.  Betts & West Funeral Home is honored to serve the Blackford family.