Ola Belle Blackledge

Ola Belle Blackledge of Lubbock and formerly of Levelland, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2022.  Family and friends will celebrate her life of 89 years at 1:30 pm on Friday, February 18, 2022 at the City of Levelland Cemetery.

Ola Belle was born June 7, 1932 to Ed and Mary Hays in Archer City.

When Ola Belle was 16, she was saved at the Whitharral Baptist Church.  She graduated from Whitharral High School in 1950 where she played basketball and volleyball.  Ola Belle was offered a scholarship to play basketball with the Wayland Baptist Flying Queens, but turned down the opportunity so she could marry the love of her life, C.E. Stephenson.  They were married in 1952.  C.E. preceded her in death in 1969.  Her second marriage was to Ronnie Blackledge, whom preceded her in 2014. 

Ola Belle was employed by Gibson’s Discount Center and various dry cleaners as a seamstress in Levelland.  She retired from Professional Cleaners in 2014 at the age of 82.  She altered many items for the residents of Levelland with stitches of love.  Ola Belle moved to Lubbock in 2014. 

Ola Belle is survived by her son, Eddie (LaGayle) Stephenson of Levelland; son-in-law, Kent Lewis of Earth; brother, Charles (Jackie) Hays of Granbury; grandchildren, Jamie (Jason) Mills, Scott (Berry) Stephenson, Dakota Lewis, LaShawn (Mark) Swadner, and Heather (Pete) Ruiz; 13 great grandchildren; and 1 great-great granddaughter.  Her grands and greats were the loves of her life!

Ola Belle was preceded in death by her husbands; her daughter, Connie Lewis; and brother, Leon Hays.

The family is very grateful for the wonderful care Ola Belle received at the Adams Assisted Living Community, as well as Hospice of Lubbock.

In lieu of flower, the family suggests memorial contributions to Hospice of Lubbock, 3702 21^st Street, Lubbock, Texas 79410 (www.hospiceoflubbock.org) or to your favorite charity.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Krestridge Funeral Home.  (806) 897-1111