Phillis Ladd Blackwell, a lifelong and fifth generation resident of Highland Springs, Virginia, peacefully crossed over on June 4, 2012. She was born December 18, 1933 as the third of eight children to Kennon M. Ladd and Ruth Cridlin Ladd. She was a devoted and compassionate wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, leaving behind many more loving family and friends. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Robert O. Blackwell; her daughter, Nita Blackwell Collins; and grandchildren, Kate Gill Choi, Linton A. Chamouris and Elizabeth H. Gill. She leaves behind one special new addition that she cherished, her first great-grandchild, Gabriel Choi. Phillis is also survived by her brothers, Robert M. Ladd, K. Randolph Ladd, W. Douglas Ladd; and her sister, Christine L. Johnson. She was preceded in death by her lovely daughter, Merle B. "Lisa" Gill; brothers, Linwood H. Ladd, Herman M. Ladd; and her sister, Lillian L. Richardson. Phillis was a very successful business woman who graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a B.S. in business in 1993. She was employed for many years by Albert Askin Associates as a business manager. She was owner of Blackwell Office Services, owner and president of Capital Mortgage, Inc. in downtown Richmond, 1985 to 1992. As an accountant, in 1996, she saw the need for a business management and tax service tailored to senior citizens. She started The Secretary, which she operated until her death. Phillis is probably best known as a Civic Leader and volunteer dedicated to the betterment of Highland Springs. She was a founding member, along with Bobby Gary Sr., of the North Airport Drive Civic Association where she served as president for many years. In 1999, she ran as a candidate for the Varina Board of Supervisors. She also served for a time as a board member of the Henrico County Department of Transportation. To hone her skills in the civic and political arena she joined Opportunity Toastmasters, which focuses on public speaking. Her dedication to this group was unwavering and she eventually served as president. She was also a member of Naomi Chapter #4, Order of the Eastern Star. Phillis was a woman with great passion towards all of her endeavors. She was a true friend, sympathetic, understanding and sensitive to all, always. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 8, at Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd., Mechanicsville. A farewell service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday at Bennett's, followed by a procession through Highland Springs en route to a graveside tribute at Washington Memorial. All are welcome.