Calhoun County, South Carolina – In the early hours of Saturday, August 17, 2024, the close-knit community of Saint Matthews was shaken by the tragic loss of Richard "Tony" Blacks, a well-known and cherished resident. Tony, as he was affectionately called by family and friends, was struck and killed in a pedestrian accident on U.S. Highway 176, just two miles outside of Saint Matthews.
The fatal accident occurred shortly before 3 a.m. on a stretch of road notorious for its rural setting and limited street lighting. According to initial reports from local authorities, Tony was walking along the highway when he was struck by a vehicle. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Tony succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The driver involved in the incident remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.
Tony, 47, was a beloved figure in Calhoun County, known for his kindness, humor, and unwavering support for those around him. Born and raised in the area, he worked in construction, a field where he was highly regarded not just for his skills but also for his mentorship and camaraderie with coworkers. "Tony was the guy you went to if you needed advice or just someone to talk to on the job," recalled one of his coworkers. "He wasn’t just a coworker; he was a friend, someone you could count on."
Tony’s untimely death has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him. Friends and neighbors remember him as a man who always greeted others with a smile and was always ready to lend a helping hand. "He always knew how to make you laugh, no matter how hard your day was going," shared a neighbor. "He had this way of lighting up the room without even trying."
The community has rallied around Tony’s family in the wake of this devastating loss. His sister, who was particularly close to him, expressed her profound grief, saying, "He was always there for me, for our family, through thick and thin. He wasn’t just my brother, he was my best friend."
As the South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash, the community is coming together to support Tony’s family. A vigil was held near the site of the accident, where residents gathered to light candles, share memories, and pay tribute to a man whose impact on their lives will not be forgotten.
Plans for a memorial service are underway, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with funeral expenses. The outpouring of love and support from the community is a testament to the lasting impression Tony left on all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the stories shared by those who loved him and in the memories of a life well-lived, albeit tragically cut short.