James Alan "Cryin' Shame" Blackmon

James Alan Blackmon, age 56, of Newton Grove, passed away on May 23rd, 2026, at Wake Medical Center in Raleigh.  With his adoring and loving wife and special friends by his side. Though his passing leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of those who loved him, the memories he created and the love he shared will continue on in the many lives he touched..

Born in Johnston County on February 14th, 1970,  Alan, was the son of James Cecil Blackmon and the late Hulda Lee Blackmon. Throughout his life, Alan was known as a hardworking man who made his living as a self-employed truck driver.. Many knew him best by his CB handle, “Cryin’ Shame”  a name recognized by fellow truckers and friends far and wide. Whether traveling down the highway or gathered around friends, Alan, had a way of making lasting impressions on the people he met.

But beyond the trucking world, Alan, was simply a man with a huge heart. He loved the outdoors — fishing on quiet days, hunting with friends, and enjoying fireworks that lit up the night sky. He loved animals deeply, especially his cats, which brought him comfort and companionship throughout the years. Those closest to him knew that behind his strong exterior was a caring and compassionate soul who would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need.

Alan valued friendship greatly. He was the kind of man who answered the phone no matter the hour, showed up when someone needed help, and stood by those he cared about. He never met many strangers, and the friendships he formed were genuine and lasting. His special friends — Daryl Stade, Susan Stade, Doug Faircloth, Harper Little, Terri Montgomery, Chrissy Beasley, Ray Parker, Neil Barefoot, and “40” — along with countless others, each shared a unique bond with him and will forever carry memories of laughter, stories, and good times spent together.

Above all else, Alan, loved his wife. He leaves behind those who meant the world to him:; his beloved wife,  Lynn Blackmon; his father James Cecil Blackmon. his brother, Cecil Scott Blackmon; along with numerous extended family members and treasured friends who will miss him dearly every day ahead.

Today, while our hearts are heavy with grief, we can also be thankful — thankful for the years shared with Alan, for the stories, the laughter, the kindness, and the memories that can never be taken away. A man’s life is not measured simply by years, but by the lives he touched, and Alan touched many.

Graveside services to celebrate his life will be held at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Blackmon Family Cemetery, 453 Thornton Road, Newton Grove, with the Reverend Donald Massey officiating.

As we say our earthly goodbyes, may we remember Alan not for the day he left this world, but for the way he lived within it — fiercely loyal, hardworking, caring, and always willing to help a friend. 

Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the Blackmon family.  On-line condolences  can be directed to the family at www.shumate-faulk.com

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