James A. Blalock

James (Jim) A. Blalock, 93, passed away on November 18, 2024, at United Methodist Communities – Pitman Assisted Living. Born in Long Branch, New Jersey, Jim was the son of Irvin and Clarice Simmill Blalock. He spent his early years between Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore and graduated from Manasquan High School in 1949.
Jim is survived by his sister Louise Blalock Lushington of Hartford, Connecticut; his former wife, Jean Blalock of Bedminster; and four children: Janet and her husband Anthony Previte of Flemington; John (Jack) of Bedminster, James (Jim) and his wife Jennifer Vitale of Bound Brook, and Katy and her husband Darryl Roland of Mooresville, North Carolina. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Jennifer Blalock; Jameson, Elizabeth, and Colin Previte; Annie Blalock; Andrew and Allison Roland; as well as his nieces and nephew, Lisa, Thomas, and Mara Dolan.
Jim was predeceased by his daughter Linda Blalock, his son Randall Blalock, his grandson David Blalock, and his niece Eva Dolan.
Jim's lifelong passion for golf led him to pursue the sport as a career. He became a proud member of the PGA and earned accreditation as a golf professional. After retiring as a golf professional in the early 1980s, Jim remained closely connected to the game as a caddy at the world-renowned Pine Valley Golf Club. He was very happy to have passed on his love for the game to both his children and grandchildren.
Jim's love for sports extended well beyond golf; he was a devoted fan of many sports, having played football and basketball in high school and later rekindled an interest in his boyhood game of half-ball. He found joy in cheering for his grandchildren at their sports competitions and music events, always proud of his family's talents and accomplishments.
Jim embraced life with a spirit of adventure. He enjoyed memorable journeys to Australia and New Zealand, as well as family golf trips to both Ireland and Scotland. He traveled across the United States, following his passion for golf and the great outdoors. He enjoyed an extended trip with friends, traveling from Philadelphia to Canada to the West Coast and back, solely by train.
A health and fitness enthusiast for many, many years, Jim took a keen interest in nutrition and exercise. He embraced an active lifestyle throughout his life, developing a passion for ballroom dancing.
Services will be private. To share condolences with the family, please visit www.bradleyfuneralhomes.com.
Jim's impact on the lives of his family and cherished friends was enormous; he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.