Nelson Grey Blackwell, Jr., lovingly known as Grey, age 56, of Oxford, North Carolina, passed away on February 4, 2026, in his hometown of Oxford. He was born to Nelson “Buddy” Blackwell and Judy Hart Blackwell, both of Oxford, North Carolina, and remained deeply connected to the community throughout his life.

Grey was a devoted son, father, brother, and uncle. He is survived by his sons, Nelson Grey Blackwell III (Lindsey) of Kernersville, North Carolina, and Robert Daniel “Dan” Blackwell of Morehead City, North Carolina; his parents, Nelson “Buddy” Blackwell and Judy Hart Blackwell; his brother, Carl Blackwell (Melanie) of Oxford, North Carolina; his beloved nephews, Tristan and River Blackwell of Raleigh, North Carolina; and many loving aunts and cousins. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Grey graduated from J.F. Webb High School, class of 1988, where he was a member of the football team, the marching band, and the jazz band as a saxophonist, and was voted Most Creative in his class. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from North Carolina State University, School of Design, class of 1992. He remained an avid Wolfpack fan and supporter as a proud member of the NCSU Alumni Association. Family and friends have long enjoyed gathering at the infamous “Pack House” on Shady Grove Farm, the family homestead founded in 1940, a place filled with laughter, memories, and shared tradition. Grey was also a faithful member of Oxford Baptist Church.

Grey was widely respected by colleagues, fellow artists, and established cartoonists in both the haunted attraction industry and the newspaper field. He began his career as a graphic designer/illustrator for the Gainesville Times in Gainesville, Georgia, and went on to serve as a graphic illustrator for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He later joined the News & Observer in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he worked as an editor, illustrator, and cartoonist. In 2008, Grey left the News & Observer to pursue work as a freelance artist.

Grey was also the creator and owner of Granville Haunt Farm in Oxford, North Carolina. In 2014, he transformed the family farm into an immersive haunted attraction, featuring mazes, paintball escape rooms, and more, building it into the largest haunted drive-thru attraction in the state. Later, he expanded the experience into the Granville Christmas Farm, creating a seasonal space where family, friends, and the community could gather to celebrate, share joy, and experience his creativity. Grey was deeply loved by the many kids and adult employees who worked at the farm, who admired his generosity, creativity, and mentorship. His fascination with all things Halloween and festive entertainment began in his home basement and grew into a full-scale creative enterprise, where he formed friendships ranging from local fans to some of his favorite celebrities, all drawn to his imagination and passion for the craft.

A gifted artist from a very early age, Grey’s virtuosic talent was widely recognized. He published cartoons in MAD Magazine and created infographics and illustrations for the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. His caricature of LeBron James was famously printed on packages of Bubblicious gum. His artistic style was fun, whimsical, and marked by a flair for satire, capturing humor, imagination, and personality in every piece. His work touched audiences both locally and nationally, leaving a lasting impression on all who encountered his art.

Grey’s life was marked by the love he had for his family and the quiet but meaningful impact he made on those around him. His memory will be cherished and carried forward by those who loved him.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Oxford Baptist Church, located on Main Street in Oxford, North Carolina. The service will be officiated by Rev. David James Hailey Jr., beginning at 3:00 PM, with a visitation for family and friends in the fellowship hall from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the condolences and acts of kindness they have received during this challenging time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

The Blackwell family is grateful for the care provided by the staff at Gentry Newell and Vaughan Funeral Home, located at 503 College St., Oxford, North Carolina.