The Texas Tech Red Raiders community is mourning the loss of one of its most loyal fans.
Rod Blackburn, a passionate supporter from Lubbock, Texas, passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025, after collapsing during the team’s home game against Kent State at Jones AT&T Stadium.
He was sitting in section 120 with his family, including his oldest granddaughter, excited to watch the Red Raiders play.
The team went on to win convincingly, 62-14, with quarterback Behren Morton throwing for three touchdowns and the defense contributing a pick-six.
Rod was not just any fan. He was a lifelong resident of Lubbock who dedicated much of his time to supporting local school programs and athletic events.
For many years, he worked with youth at First Baptist Church of Lubbock, where he was known as a key supporter and mentor.
His enthusiasm for the Red Raiders and community sports touched many lives, making him a familiar and beloved figure in the area.
He is survived by his wife, Tonya Blackburn, and their family.
Rod attended Coronado High School in Lubbock and graduated from Texas Tech University in 1978.
In the wake of this tragedy, Tonya shared a heartfelt post that captured Rod’s love for the team.
She wrote about how, on that Saturday, “Jesus said come home” while Rod was in section 120, enjoying the game with his loved ones.
She added that they would be back in that same section soon because “Rod would want it that way.“
Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire addressed the sad news at the start of his weekly press conference.
He expressed his deep sorrow, saying,
“We had a loss in the Red Raider family on Saturday. Debbie and I were heartbroken to hear about the passing of Rod Blackburn, who was attending the game this Saturday with his family. There he was sitting in section 120. Debbie shared with me and Matt one of the posts that his wife made, and her post said, ‘Saturday when Jesus said come home, sitting in section 120 at Jones AT&T Stadium with his family, including the oldest granddaughter, excited to watch as the Red Raiders beat Kent State. Where would he rather be?’ Later in that post, she said, ‘We’ll be back in section 120 again soon because Rod would want it that way.’ So just want to say, from my coaching staff and my family, we’re praying for you guys. Much love for your support. I can’t imagine what you were going through when the game was going on.”
Via Facebook
The Community’s Support has been Incredible, with Many Offering their Condolences Both Online and in Person
Gary Pool, a close friend, shared,
“Rod will be missed dearly. God bless your hearts. We looked so forward to you and Rod coming in November for the concert in Abilene. Rod, we will miss you dearly, my best friend forever and ever. We are so blessed to have him in our lives.”
Via Facebook
Another friend, Charlotte Crow Owen, added,
“I’m stunned and so devastated for you. We loved Rod and we love you. We will be by your side in prayer and in any way we can. Please know we are here and ready to help in any way we can.”
Via Facebook
To help Tonya during this difficult time, friends have organized a Meal Train with a goal of $5,000 to provide meals and financial support.
People can also contribute directly via Venmo at @Tonya-Blackburn.
This gesture shows the tight-knit nature of the Lubbock and Texas Tech communities, coming together to support one of their own in a time of need.
Rod Blackburn’s passing is a reminder of how deeply sports can connect people and families.
His legacy as a dedicated fan, community leader, and family man will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
The Red Raiders family extends its thoughts and prayers to Tonya and all who loved Rod.
