Rene Blackwell, 92, of Calhoun, MS, known to family and friends as “Mama” or “Momma Works Cheap”, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026, at Comfort Care Nursing Home surrounded by her family. Rene was born on January 12, 1934, in Covington County, MS.

Rene was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Calhoun where she enjoyed singing in the choir and fellowshipping. Rene was appointed Mayor of Calhoun. She loved and supported West Jones Football. She loved people and enjoyed her years as “Momma Works Cheap” at Blackwell Furniture. She enjoyed riding horses, fishing, traveling on cruises, customers, being with her sisters and spending time with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Virgie Holifield; 2 late husbands, McRay Padgett and G. W. Blackwell and 1 sister, Sandy Holifield Burch.

She is survived by her loving family, including her children, Ricky Padgett (Rhonda), Susie Schutz (David), Debbie Welch (Morris), Timmy Blackwell (Michelle); 11 grandchildren, Patti Bryant, Ryan Padgett (Keri), Amber Gray (Robby), Davey Schutz (Amy), Natalie Wedgeworth (Reuben), John Welch (Sarah), Adam Welch (Christina), Katie Dewease (Drew), Hope Ingram, Tyler Blackwell (Caroline), Mikaela Dukes and 20 great-grandkids; siblings, Barbara Doggett, Leroy Holifield, Billy Holifield, Linda Rogers (Gary), Diane Buchanan; brother in law, Terry Burch and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Calhoun, Laurel, Mississippi, from 5:00PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday at 10:00AM at the same location, with burial at First Baptist Church of Calhoun Cemetery. Bro. Bob Burch will officiate. Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel.

Pallbearers will be Ryan Padgett, Davey Schutz, John Welch, Adam Welch, Tyler Blackwell, Jon Widener.

Special thanks to Comfort Care Nursing Home and caregiver, Sonia Laster.