Jennifer L. Blackwell-Hawthorne

United States Army Lieutenant Colonel Jennifer L. Blackwell-Hawthorne tragically lost her life on November 8, 2024, due to service-connected illness.

A native of Burlington, New Jersey, Blackwell-Hawthorne was a truly beloved individual whose vibrant spirit, warmth, and unwavering commitment to service left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Throughout her life, Blackwell-Hawthorne was a cherished daughter, a supportive sister, a devoted wife, and a loving mother. She embraced a full and active life, finding immense joy in a variety of activities. In her youth, she participated in softball and cheerleading. Blackwell-Hawthorne enjoyed traveling. Above all, the greatest source of her happiness was spending quality time with her close-knit family, whom she treasured deeply.

Blackwell-Hawthorne began her remarkable journey of service in February of 2002 when she enlisted in the United States Army Reserves. Initially joining to help fund her education, her passion for the military blossomed while attending her college’s ROTC Program. She went on to become an accomplished Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Officer. Throughout her distinguished career, Blackwell-Hawthorne earned numerous awards and accolades, a testament to her incredible work ethic and patriotism. Among her most significant honors are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (4th Award), the Joint Service Commendation Medal (2nd Award), the Army Commendation Medal (4th Award), and the Iraq Campaign Medal (with 2 Bronze Stars). Her commitment to service was further recognized when the Army Inspector General dedicated their conference room in her honor at the Pentagon.

Beyond her military achievements, her life was marked by a deep commitment to community and sisterhood. She was a vibrant and dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the Order of the Eastern Star, and the Show Stoppers Motorcycle Club. Blackwell-Hawthorne always inspired people around her to be better people. Her kindness, dedication, and vibrant spirit touched everyone, fortunate enough to know her.

Blackwell-Hawthorne’s enduring love story with her husband, Jamel, began when they first met in 2001, while in Heidelberg, Germany. Their paths crossed again in 2015 in Louisville, Kentucky. Jamel was immediately drawn to her natural beauty and personality. Once they started dating he knew he would marry her. The couple built a life full of cherished memories, which centered on the milestones that established their family. They shared the joy and accomplishment of purchasing their first home together, the deep commitment celebrated on their wedding day, and the profound, life-changing happiness of the day their son, Jamel Jr., was born. These moments formed the beautiful foundation of the life and love they created.

Leaving behind a powerful legacy defined by love, family, and service, Blackwell-Hawthorne’s impact will be remembered by all who knew her. Her joy in creating a home and her happiness as a mother truly defined her. Her most precious and lasting legacy is her son, Jamel, Jr who will carry her spirit and love forward. Jamel shares stories and pictures of their life together with his son, ensuring he grows up knowing his mother’s strength, love and incredible spirit. Her birthday and other important milestones are celebrated with special family traditions.  Jamel embraces the passions she held for community, sisterhood, and service, not only by living those values himself but also contributing to causes that Blackwell-Hawthorne cared deeply about by supporting military families and young women in science. Blackwell-Hawthorne leaves behind a love so deep that it continues to echo through the lives and hearts she forever changed.

United States Army Lieutenant Colonel Jennifer L. Blackwell-Hawthorne is survived by her devoted husband, CPT Jamel M. Hawthorne; her two-year-old son, Jamel M. Hawthorne Jr.; her mother, Gaye Y. Taylor (Ezell); her father, Edward Blackwell III (Fran); and her brother, Jonathan Blackwell.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Blackwell-Hawthorne family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.