Christene Blaylock

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christene Blaylock, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who left this world on March 18, 2025. Born on March 14, 1931, in Grenada, Mississippi, Christene lived a life full of creativity, faith, and unwavering love. She went to be with the Lord, leaving behind a legacy characterized by kindness, talent, and a deep commitment to her family and faith.

Christene's journey through life was marked by a multitude of accomplishments. As a professional artist, she expressed her creativity through her paintings and diverse artistic endeavors, including her work as a layout artist for Towery Press, Commercial Appeal, and the Memphis Press Scimitar. She excelled in music as well, showcasing her skills as an accomplished musician who played the accordion, piano, organ, and clarinet. Christene’s musical talents were often accompanied by her lovely voice, which brought joy to those fortunate enough to hear her sing.

As the ultimate Pastor's wife, Christene's life was devoted to her faith and to serving others. Her commitment to her Christian beliefs was evident in her daily actions; she read the Bible each day and fervently prayed every night for everyone she knew by name, as well as for the safety of people she didn’t know. Her tender heart welcomed strays, reflecting her compassionate spirit and remarkable affection for all living beings.

Christene was not only a proud mother to her children, Yvonne Richardson, Lorene (Doug) Ufferman, Patricia (Ken) Langford, and Karen Blaylock, but also a loving grandmother and great-grandmother. The warmth of her nurturing nature extended to her grandchildren: Yvette (Ryan) Booth, James Michael (Casey) Richardson, Kristin (Josh) Adams, Brandon (Sarah) Blaylock, Courtney (Russell) Bowen, Brett Blaylock, Jared (Lauren) Ufferman, Rachel (Jake) Durham, Aaron Langford, and Zachary (Clara) Langford. Her great-grandchildren, Luke Jackson, Elizabeth Jackson, Caleb Jackson, Michael Richardson, Emma Richardson, Easton Richardson, Blue Bonnett Richardson, Matthew Blaylock, Gracie Adams, Barrett Adams, Josiah Adams, Soren Blaylock, Ransom Blaylock, Rosie Bowen, and Knox Ufferman, will forever cherish the memories they've made with her.

Christene's pride in her family was matched only by her dedication to nurturing her gardens and tending to her home. Known for being a great cook and an avid gardener, she enjoyed prepping and canning, always prepared for whatever came her way. In her free time, she loved engaging with puzzles and puzzle books, showcasing her vibrant spirit and zest for life. The award-winning handmaid wedding dress she crafted for her daughter stands as a testament to her skills and dedication. Additionally, her colored pencil drawing, displayed in a cancer ward in Jackson, MS, provided hope and solace for survivors, while her published poetry offers a glimpse into her soul.

Her friends and family were not just recipients of her love but active participants in her richly woven life tapestry. Among these was her special friend, Shirley Bishop, alongside a host of others that were blessed to have known her. Christene's gentle yet impactful personality will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of being a part of her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Alma Costilow, her husband, Ralph Blaylock, her brothers, Clarence Costilow and Millard Costilow, and her son, Dan Blaylock. The absence of these loved ones added to the depth of her love and strength throughout the years.

A visitation will be held in her honor on March 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at The Carter Memorial Chapel at Twin Oaks Funeral Home in Southaven, MS. Following the visitation, a heartfelt funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM, culminating with her burial at 3:00 PM at Twin Oaks Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home.

Christene Blaylock's legacy will long live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Her life was an illustration of service to others, and her spirit will continue to inspire those left behind.