Obituary of Elissa Ricco Blackie

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Elissa (Lisa) Blackie, 72, of Navarre, Florida and Alpharetta, Georgia.  She passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 6, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, generosity and respect.

She was born on November 17, 1951 in Camden, New Jersey to the late Dominic and Phyllis Ricco.  Lisa was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Herbert (Rusty) Blackie; and brother, Dominic (Rick) Ricco.  She is survived by her sister, Susan (Sue) Ricco; brother, Andrew (Andy) Ricco; daughters, Heather and her husband Joseph Carlson and Nicole (Ko’lee) and her husband Abhijit Sohoni;  grandchildren, Bridgette, Lauren, Libby, Sam, Paul, and Christian; and great-grandchild, Kent Jr. (Kage). 

Lisa and Rusty lived/moved between New Jersey and Florida throughout their lives.  Her warmth and kindness touched the lives of everyone she met and she will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts. Lisa was fiercely loyal, turning friends into family and keeping them close in her heart, even if she moved to new places.  Her children and grandchildren’s friends were welcome at all times, always calling her by the familiar Mom or Nanny. 

Her battles with cancer did not define her as she lived a remarkable life, cultivated in honesty and curiosity.  She loved to travel, enjoying exploring the United States and abroad.  Her most spoken of adventure was with Rusty when they flew to California, bought a car and drove it cross country back to Florida so they didn't have to see the same things twice.  She was able to see the Eiffel Tower, Phantom of the Opera in London, the Taj Mahal, and spend a Thanksgiving in Italy with her children, their spouses, and her grandchildren.  In all the moves and travel, being surrounded by family was what made her happiest.  

As we remember Lisa, let us celebrate the vibrant and loving soul that she was, the indelible mark she left on our lives and the joy she brought to all who knew her.  Those closest will continue to tell her stories like those of greats that came before and will come after.  May her spirit rest in eternal peace.

We love you mom, Nanny, Lee!

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in loving memory of Lisa to Santa Rosa Kids House in Milton, Florida.

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