Isabell Yates Blackman

Isabell Y Blackman, 90, of High Point, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Harmony Home of Greensboro.

Born December 3, 1935, in Apex, NC she was a daughter of tobacco farmers, the late Clayburn Yates and the late Lily Wilkins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her granddaughter Lily Blackman; brother, James Yates; and sister, Doris Goodwin.

Mrs. Blackman was the personal secretary to former US Ambassador to Estonia, Stanley Davis Phillips. She was a longtime member of Green Street Baptist Church. Isabell was a High School basketball star, and an avid ACC basketball fan.

She married Fred Blackman October 21, 1961, and together they had three sons, David Blackman and wife Ashton of High Point, Dr. Chris Blackman and wife Yvette of Greensboro, and Dr. Doug Blackman and wife Susan of Summerfield. She was also survived by her grandchildren, Anna Blackman, Lindsay Blackman, Rhette Blackman, and Ava Blackman.

Memorial Service will be 12:30PM Friday, January 23, 2026, at Green Street Baptist Church with Pastor Jeff Dowdy officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service.

Wright Funerals-Cremations, High Point, is in charge of the arrangements.