The Dallas County Bar Association honored the late Cartledge Blackwell Jr. Monday morning at the Dallas County Courthouse.

The bar paid homage to Blackwell’s 47-year legal career and his service to the community by signing a resolution and reading it aloud in court. It took place in the courtroom of Dallas County District Court Judge Bob Armstrong.

“We do hereby assemble and take official notice of the passing from this life of Cartledge Weeden Blackwell Jr. and officially acknowledge the admirable legal career and service of our brother Cartledge Weeden Blackwell Jr. and the loss to our association and community,” the resolution reads.

Blackwell, a former assistant District Attorney, passed away on June 7, 2019 after a lengthy illness.

The resolution was read aloud in court by Dallas County Circuit Court Judge Don McMillian, a member of the Dallas County Bar Association.

“Cartledge Blackwell taught me how to appreciate Hancock Barbecue and Banana Pudding,” McMillian joked. “He was a brilliant man in the law because he cared about people.”

Nicknamed Cart, Blackwell’s achievements in Selma include the Gordon F. Bailey Attorney of the Year plaque back-to-back in 2009 and 2010 and being a longtime assistant district attorney for child support.

Blackwell is survived by his wife, Sara Crum Cook Blackwell, daughter Virginia L. Blackwell, son Cartledge L. Blackwell III, sister Coralee B. Jones.

“I’m very proud,” Sara Blackwell said. “He’s a historian and genealogist and love telling stories. He enjoyed working with his daughter.”

Selma attorney Virginia L. Blackwell practiced law with Blackwell from 2003 until his death and said it was an honor working with him.

“He was my compass and I miss my daddy,” Virginia L. Blackwell said. “Daddy was the one who always wrote the memorial resolutions for everyone else. He would be honored by the attendance and support today. I had the unique experience and privilege practicing law with my father and godfather, Parke Keith. That is something I will treasure forever. I can never fill daddy’s shoes, but I hope to continue his legacy.”

Blackwell was born to Cartledge Weeden Blackwell and Ruth Adler Blackwell. His great-grandfather, F.M. Blackwell, served as Dallas County Sheriff from 1900 to 1906. Blackwell attended Selma public schools, the University of Alabama, and the University of Alabama School of Law.  Cartledge was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Selma, where he served as a warden and vestryman.