James Leroy Blackwell—lovingly known to all as Capt'n Curly and to the ladies, as "James Bond"—was born December 13, in the year of our lord 1939, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, and went home on December 21, 2025, surrounded by the comfort of his family in his home in Chapin, South Carolina.

He is joyfully reunited with his parents, Rufus and Dorothy Blackwell; and his beloved sister, Trevera Thornton who is survived by Donald Thorton, nephews and family.

James leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter and is survived by his devoted wife, Tammy Blackwell; his children and grandchildren: Denise Baker, spouse Michael, and son Dylan; Julie Cubine, spouse Steve, and sons Trent and Jake, fiancé Anna Grace Dorrien; Nina Henrique De Oliveira, spouse Guida; Anthony Koegler, daughters Tara and Ally; Bridget Collingwood, fiancé Gabriel Amram; and Paul Collingwood Jr.

He is also survived by all of the family pets he adored and spoiled without apology. A proud United States Navy veteran, James served as a Gunner's Mate aboard the destroyer USS Cone. He remained deeply connected to his fellow servicemen throughout his life as a member of American Legion Post 193 and the American Legion Riders in Chapin, South Carolina, as well as the VFW in John's Pass, Florida. He was a member of the Sertoma and the Columbia Shag Club of Columbia, South Carolina.

James had gasoline in his veins and wind in his soul. An avid motorcycle rider since high school, his love for the open road never faded. When he wasn't riding, you could find him boating, camping, traveling, attending Jimmy Buffett concerts, or cheering on the South Carolina Gamecocks. He truly never met a stranger—only friends he hadn't talked to yet. Following his Navy service, James studied with IBM, worked for the University of South Carolina, and later founded his own business, Capital Printer Repair, before retiring. Known for his ingenuity, he firmly believed there was nothing in this world that couldn't be fixed with a screwdriver and duct tape—and he usually proved it. Occasionally his friends would lovingly advise him to use it on his mouth.

James was a faithful member of Chapin Community Christian Church and faithfully attended services in person when able. He also enjoyed attending watching sermons online from Pine Grove Baptist Church in Lugoff, South Carolina.

Above all, James will be remembered for his kindness, his easy-going spirit, his constant smile, and his rare gift of making everyone feel welcome, seen, and valued. To know him was to feel like family.

Services will be held Monday, December 29, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at American Legion Post 193, 102 Lexington Ave, Chapin, SC 29036. Following the service, James will be laid to rest at Fort Jackson National Cemetery with Military Honors at 3 o'clock. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

Though our hearts are heavy, we smile knowing that Capt'n Curly is riding free, reunited with loved ones, and greeting heaven the same way he greeted everyone here—with a grin, a story and an open heart.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations in tribute of James, to the American Legion Post 193, 102 Lexington Ave, Chapin, SC 29036.