Former Representative Ben Blackburn, who significantly contributed to The Heritage Foundation as chairman of its board of trustees during its formative years, has passed away at the age of 97. Blackburn served as the organization's chairman from 1974 to 1982, guiding it from a small conservative policy group to an influential source for the Reagan administration.
In 2007, The Heritage Foundation recognized Blackburn's contributions by unveiling his portrait during its annual President’s Club meeting in Washington, D.C. This portrait is displayed permanently at the foundation's headquarters.
Before his involvement with The Heritage Foundation, Blackburn represented Georgia’s 4th District in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1966 to 1972. He was a member of the House Committee on Banking and Currency and the Joint Economic Committee. After stepping down as chairman, he remained on the board until 1984 and later worked for the U.S. Department of Transportation until his retirement in 1990.
Blackburn's career included roles in law, politics, and policy. He practiced law and served two years with Georgia's attorney general staff. A veteran of World War II and the Korean War, he retired from the Navy Reserve as a lieutenant commander.
He leaves behind his children Michael Blackburn (Jeneen), Robert Blackburn, Kathryn Blackburn Boyce (Ronald W. Boyce), David Blackburn (Beth); sisters Jane Disbrow (Marcus Disbrow) and Nancy Bracewell (James Bracewell); fourteen grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Edwin J. Feulner, founder and former president of The Heritage Foundation stated: "In our earliest years, Ben Blackburn understood both the potential impact of Heritage and the need for an independent, serious board of trustees to lend credibility to this fledgling institution and guide it through the challenges of the Washington environment. He was always available to those of us who had the honor of working with him over the years. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy of service—both to Heritage and beyond—will endure forever."
Kevin Roberts, current president of The Heritage Foundation added: “Ben Blackburn’s steadfast leadership and vision helped transform The Heritage Foundation from a small idea into a powerhouse of conservative thought. His dedication to advancing freedom and his service to this nation—in war, in Congress, and at Heritage—will inspire generations to come. We honor his legacy and celebrate a life well-lived.”
