Edward J. Blake

Edward Joseph Blake was born May 7, 1939, in Pascagoula, Mississippi to the union of his loving parents, Mr. Ben and Mrs. Bessie Blake, who preceded him in death. He was baptized at an early age at Antioch Baptist Church in that same city. Edward continued to be an active and outgoing resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Edward was a member of the graduating class of 1957 from Carver High School. He was regarded as a standout football player, with stories of several standout plays during that time. After graduation, Edward joined the United States Army, stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He became a member of the 82nd Airborne Division, an infantry division of the U.S. Army, paratroopers specializing in parachute assaults.
After Edward returned to the Gulf Coast from the Army in 1960, he embarked on a journey at Ingalls Shipbuilding that led to an enduring career. He began at the defense contractor as a chauffeur, driving company executives and visiting dignitaries to and from the airport in New Orleans, Louisiana. Through challenges and obstacles, he was promoted to Commander of Plant Security of formerly Litton Industries, now Huntington Ingalls.
Edward was an advocate for work-life balance before the concept became widespread. He was about the business of living. As an avid lover of jazz music, from its origin to live entertainment, Edward could be found listening to the genre for hours or attending concerts throughout the years. From Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, to of course Thelonious Monk, jazz was his elixir for life. He was an active member of the Arnett Garland Jennings VFW Post #10024 for many years. In his early years, Edward was a member of the Ingalls Shipyard bowling league. He could be found on any given weekend fishing from a boat or a local dock. For many years, nothing satisfied him more than being out on the golf course or just cheering on his favorite sports team. He loved to cook, and he was not modest about his skills. Edward left nothing on the table when it came to enjoying his time here. Again, jazz music was the soundtrack of his life.
It was common knowledge among family and friends that Edward had a big personality. The room shifted when he entered. Strangers soon realized the effects of his charismatic presence, as they were drawn in with humor and wit.
Edward was the consummate storyteller. Unfortunately, the loved ones left behind will no longer be able to lean in to his every word. He leaves behind to remember those times, his longtime, loving and special companion, Lynda Roberts of Ocean Springs, MS. His two sons from an early union, Retired Master Chief Rene LaBaron Blake (Carolyn Faye) of Milton, Florida. and Thelonious Andre Blake (Barbara) of Los Angeles, California. Subsequently on his journey, two daughters were born. Donna Tate and Elyse Jenkins, both of Pascagoula, Mississippi. Four (4) siblings, Johnny Blake (Rhenetta) of Moss Point, Mississippi. Jerry Blake (Susan) of San Diego, California. Vonita (Andrew) Ellis of Madison Alabama. and Ben Blake Jr. of Pascagoula, Mississippi. Eight (8) grandchildren, Eight (8) great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Special people that Edward kept close to his heart; his nieces, Lisa Carter (Ron), India Bolden (Jeff) both of Madison, Alabama and Leticia Ellis of Atlanta, Georgia. Always special care and concerned for Edward and his well-being was Robyn Roberts of Atlanta, Georgia.
We celebrate the life of our loved one. We leave sadness behind and embrace joy! "Be happy" was his motto. The vibes of Edward Joseph Blake will never be forgotten.
The family of Edward Joseph Blake sincerely appreciate each prayer, thoughts and acts of kindness shown during this time. May God richly bless you and yours.