James Glenn Blake

.James Glenn Blake, 70, passed away on Friday, July 12, 2024. He was born in Guilford County to Frances Ray Blake and Dolores Williford Blake, both surviving. He was the husband of 37 years to Judy Westbrooks Blake who survives.

Glenn graduated from Appalachian State University in 1977. Upon graduation he entered the US Navy, retiring after serving 20 years, attaining the rank of PO1. He recently retired from the City of Burlington as a Crew Leader in Cemetery and Grounds. For nearly thirty years he knew every inch of the grounds at all the city’s parks, cemeteries, greenways and medians. During his tenure, he modeled the dedication and effort required to keep the cemetery and grounds to a presentation level expected by the public. He was a mentor to numerous younger co-workers. Most employees dread leaf season, but not Blake, he looked forward to it and had even agreed to return this fall as a part-time employee to aid with the heavy workload.

He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Elon and American Legion Post 63. In his “spare” time, Glenn worked till dark landscaping lawns across the county with a list of fifty or more clients. When he relaxed, Glenn enjoyed traveling with Judy. He wanted Judy to experience the beauty of the regions that he enjoyed during his multiple tours while in the Navy. They have visited many countries in Europe, especially around the Mediterranean Sea. When traveling in the US, they set their sights to visit all fifty states traveling to Alaska, Hawaii, to the Grand Canyon and points in between taking in the cool air in the mountains and the salty air at the beach. While on vacation, you could find Glenn chatting with the tour guide, relaxing with a book, or by Judy’s side trying a new restaurant.

In addition to his wife and parents, Glenn is survived by his step-son Brian Faucette (Mary) of Graham; grandchildren Berkley, Linen, and Jameson; sisters Cindy Crawford of Greensboro and Donna Williams (David) of Plymouth, Massachusetts; brother Steve Blake (Tia) of Durham; an aunt, Jan Trollinger of Greensboro; several nieces and nephews and his canine companion “Brooks.” He was preceded in death by his uncle, JC Trollinger.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00AM on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel by Rev. Chris Howe. The burial will follow at Pine Hill Cemetery with military honors by the US Navy. The family will receive friends from 6:00PM-8:00PM on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at Lowe Funeral Home and Crematory and other times at the home.

Memorials may be made to The American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or the family would encourage you to donate blood as Glenn donated countless gallons throughout his life.

To watch the service and to sign online condolences, please visit www.lowefuneralhome.com.