Dolores Blackmore

Dolores Luana Blackmore, age 90, of Kentwood, Michigan, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior after a life defined by faith, family, and service. Born in Stockbridge, Michigan, on October 26, 1934, Dolores spent her life pouring love into her family, her church, students, and the community.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 70 years, Lynn Blackmore, and their four daughters: Elaine Carovilla and husband Salvatore, Julie Poulton and husband Rex, Brenda Meldrum and husband Craig, and Amy Spees and husband John. Dolores’s legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Andrew, Lindsey, Nathan, Karlie, Matthew, Megan, Jeffrey, and Adam, and her great-grandson, Harlan. She is also survived by her sister, Valerie Andrews.

A graduate of Spring Arbor University, Dolores taught 4th grade and was involved in all aspects of public school life. Her heart for children and young people extended far beyond the classroom. She served as President of the PTA, led local Brownies and Girl Scouts chapters, and opened her home over several years to three foreign exchange students from France, Germany, and the Philippines—welcoming each with the same love and warmth she gave her own family.

Dolores was an active leader in her church community. She was chairman of the Missions Committee, Angel Tree Ministries, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and various youth ministries. Throughout her life, she remained deeply involved in Bible studies and small group fellowships, always seeking to grow closer to the Lord and to pray for others.

Her love of sports was infectious and she remained a faithful Wolverine fan and a proud supporter of the University of Michigan since attending a cheerleading camp there in 1951. One of her proudest memories was serving at the Salt Lake City Olympics in 2002, where she loved on every athlete she met.   

Dolores was so much fun, always a positive force and living life to the fullest.  But above all, she was selfless, always serving others in ways that were often unseen. Whether it was sending cards, preparing meals, showing hospitality, or simply being there for others, Dolores had a heart for the underdog and always noticed when someone was in need of love.  She was a true servant and her life was a reflection of her love for Christ.  

A funeral service for Dolores will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, 11am at Heritage Baptist Church, 1570 60th St. SE Kentwood 49508. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 4-7pm at MKD Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Kentwood, 49508, as well as from 9:30 - 11:00am prior to the start of the service at church. Burial will take place at 4pm at East Rives Cemetery, 10561-10581 Easton Rd., Rives Junction (Jackson) MI, 49277.  Contributions can be made and designated in Dolores’ memory to the following charities that meant a lot to her: Samaritan's Purse or to Hogar de Amor Orphanage.