This website is dedicated to a dear friend who many people will miss dearly. This site is for my dear  friend, James "Jamie" V. Blackburn, Jr. 

"BLACKBURN, JAMES V. JR. "JAMIE," 33, of Tampa, formerly of St. Petersburg, died Saturday (April 7, 2001) at Palms of Pasadena Hospital, South Pasadena. Born in North Wilkesboro, N.C., he moved to St. Petersburg in 1984 before moving to Tampa. He was a certified computer technician and a Navy veteran. Survivors include his father and stepmother, James V. and Susan Blackburn, Largo; his mother and stepfather, Marion and Gary Farmer, Wilkesboro, N.C.; two sisters, Cindi Jones, Boomer, N.C., and Andrea Vest, Largo; and a brother, Roger Vest, Largo. Anderson-McQueen Funeral Homes & Cremation Tribute Center-Bobbitt Chapel, St. Petersburg."*

*Copied without permission from the St. Petersburg Times. 

The obituary doesn't tell the story that we hold in our hearts and memories. Our thoughts of Jamie will go with us forever as he touched us all in his special way. 

I have yet to meet or hear of anyone that did not like him. From the time I met him at 55 Degrees 5 until he left us so prematurely I never had a reason not to like him. Jamie was a good friend. He was the person to always be there to lend a hand for a good cause. He was a real trooper. He helped me greatly in the production and aftermath of Beanfest III. Without his help it probably wouldn't have made it as far as it did and I know he was one of the biggest reasons many still had a great time that night even after mother nature rained us out. He was all about the music, the family and the vibe that is at the core of our lives. He was one of the only people I knew to have been in "the scene" longer than my self (1987). Older than me by 8 months he was one of the true peers in my life. We both shared a love for the music and outside that circle were both computer geeks and Camaro owners. We shared many moments discussing life, women and current issues. He would always listen as I tried to do for him. I know we were friends. I miss him. 

I will take away from this experience a greater understanding of how truly precious life is and how each and everyday should be shared to the fullest with those that you love. Never leave issues unsettled between friends. Love those that deserve it and offer it to those others until they do. Encourage everyone to recognize all the things that are going right in theirs lives when they are stuck on the few that are not. Be there to listen and communicate to those that are listening to you. Live your life to the fullest and be there for your friends. Life can be a very lonely place but with friends like Jamie in your life you can certainly forget that in hurry. Be there for someone like he was for you. Spread love, not hate and it will come back to you exponentially. Jamie loved us... and I know I shall always love him. 

Best wishes and much love to all...

- Andrew Rikarts, Jamie's friend. 

This page was last updated on 04/23/01.