Roberta Jean “Jitters” Blackwood (1941-2025)

Roberta Jean “Jitters” Blackwood, 83, of Chippewa Township, passed away on January 12th, 2025 at Franciscan Manor. She was born in Beaver Falls on April 8th, 1941, a daughter of the late Robert and Dorothy (Koehler) Scranton. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved brothers, Michael Scranton and Patrick Scranton, who remained forever in her heart. She is survived by her sons, Richard Blackwood and Michael (Shelley) Blackwood, grandchildren: Zinnia Blackwood, Dahlia Blackwood, Brett (Heather) Blackwood, and Abigail (Derek) Kenniston; and great-grandchildren: Gianrocco Santucci, Giovanna Santucci, Olive Blackwood, Karter Kenniston, and Layton Kenniston; her brother, Robert (Gaye) Scranton, sisters, Lila (Wayne) Bober and Robin (Tim) McGraw, sisters-in-law, Sandra Scranton and Cheryl Scranton, her dear and lifelong friend Kathy Topper and the father of her sons, W. Richard Blackwood.

Roberta lived a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to her family.
Affectionately known as “Jitters” for her boundless energy and vibrant personality, Roberta was celebrated for her quick wit and clever comebacks, bringing laughter to every situation. Her humor was matched only by her kindness and resilience, making her an unforgettable presence in the lives of those who knew her. A woman of deep faith, she was a devoted member of the Chippewa United Presbyterian Church and took comfort in the promise of being reunited with her loved ones and her Heavenly Father.
Roberta graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1959 and later attended the Community College of Beaver County, where she studied accounting and bookkeeping and was employed in that regard with various companies in the area.
She had a flair for decorating and a keen eye for antiques, hobbies that brought her great joy. She also enjoyed vacationing in Florida and in recent years, wintering in Las Vegas alongside her late companion, David Reda.
Roberta’s family will remember her for her unwavering tenacity, infectious laughter, and the joy she brought to their lives. In honor of her wishes, no formal services will be held. A Celebration of Life will take place at a future date.
The Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to assist Roberta’s family during this time.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in Roberta’s memory, celebrating the compassion and warmth she shared with everyone she met.