Holly is proud to be a lifelong resident of Sumter, South Carolina, a community that has shaped her values and inspired her commitment to public service. 

Holly is the daughter of Linda Geddings Thompson and John W. Thompson, Jr. 

   She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina, where she developed a strong foundation in leadership, management, and responsible decision-making. She is a graduate of the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Sumter Class XII. While attending college she opened a business and developed a strong work ethic and commitment to service that would guide her professional and personal life.

   For more than 21 years, she owned and operated Quality Drug Screening, Inc. providing drug, alcohol, and DNA testing services to local, state and federal government agencies as well as private sector businesses and individuals in Sumter and throughout the State. That experience allowed her to work closely with members of the community, understand the challenges families and business owners face, and build relationships grounded in trust, service, and accountability.

   In addition to her business experience, she has spent many years working within the Probate Court. Through this work, she has gained extensive knowledge of the court system and the important role the Probate Court plays in serving families during some of the most significant and sensitive moments in their lives. "My experience has provided me with a strong understanding of court procedures and the importance of fairness, compassion, and integrity in the judicial process.", said Blackwood. "Service to the community has always been a priority in my life."

   She currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for the L. Arthur O'Neill, Jr. Educational Fund, where I work alongside others who are dedicated to strengthening and supporting our community.

   "Family is at the heart of everything I do. I am blessed to be married to my husband, Russell Blackwood, for more than thirty years, and together we are the proud parents of two children, Jackson and Rachel. Raising our family here in Sumter has been one of the greatest joys of my life, and it further strengthens my dedication to the future of our community" said Blackwood.

   "With my lifelong connection to Sumter, years of hands-on experience in the Probate Court, and a background in business leadership, I am committed to serving the people of Sumter County with professionalism, fairness, and respect. It would be an honor to use my knowledge and experience to continue serving this community as your Probate Court Judge.", Blackwood said.