James Edwin Blackburn

James Edwin Blackburn, AKA (on air name - "Bradford Long"), 65, of Highland, IL died September 6, 2009 at St. Louis University Hospital, St. Louis, MO.  He was born in Batesville, IN on April 30, 1944 to James E. and Julia Jane (Hubbard) Blackburn, Sr.  He married Mina L. Durr on May 11, 1997 in Highland, IL.

He is survived by his wife - Mina L. Blackburn of Highland, IL; one Daughter and three Grandchildren; 1 Step-Daughter - Kay Bollman, Glen Carbon, IL; 1 Step-Grandson, Dawson Israel;  Mother - Julia Jane Blackburn, DeLand, Florida; 2 Brothers - John (Vita) Blackburn - Columbus, OH; Paul (Marge) Blackburn, Mt. Vernon, IL; also nieces and 1 nephew.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Mr. Blackburn worked as a Radio Broadcaster most of his adult life at WIBV - Belleville and WBGZ -Alton, among many others.

HE LOVED HIS FAMILY, THE RADIO AND POLITICS.

There will be a gathering of friends on Saturday, September 26, 2009 @ 2:00 p.m. at the Meridith Funeral Home, P.C. at our new location, 1223 Broadway.

MERIDITH FUNERAL HOME, HIGHLAND, IL

MEMORIALS:  Wounded Warriors Association or Latzer Library or to the Family.