In Memoriam 1992-1997/Olivia H. “Lee” Blackwell

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The Bahá’í World In Memoriam 1992-1997

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OLIVIA H. “LEE” BLACKWELL

1910–1997

The Universal House of Justice was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Olivia H. Blackwell, whose life was distinguished by several decades of devoted service to the Cause of God, in various capacities and in different parts of the United States, very notably in New York City, where she contributed to the work of the Bahá’í International Community at the United Nations. Be assured of its ardent prayers at the Sacred Threshold for the progress of her radiant soul in the Abhá Kingdom.

Department of the Secretariat

January 26, 1997

Little is known of the life of Olivia Blackwell. She was born on June 25, 1910, and at the age of thirty-three she declared her belief in Bahá’u’lláh. Soon after her declaration, she was elected to the newly formed Spiritual Assembly of New Orleans, Louisiana. Over the years she served that Assembly and at different times was its treasurer, chairman, and secretary. She also contributed to the activities of the Faith in Dallas, Texas, and in New York City.

It was in New York that Olivia distinguished herself. During the period of the Ten Year World Crusade she was one of four people accredited to the United Nations as observers for the Bahá’í Faith, joining the Hand of the Cause Ugo Giachery who represented the European community and Mildred R. Mottahedeh who was accredited as being an international representative. Olivia represented the United States.

In 1965 Olivia returned to New Orleans. Her service there, which continued until poor health intervened a[Page 377] few years before her passing, is warmly remembered, especially the many years during which she was the effective and loving secretary of the Local Assembly. Olivia passed away January 25, 1997.