Obituary published on Legacy.com by O'Quinn-Peebles-Phillips Funeral Home & Crematory on Dec. 22, 2023.
Jonathan Luke Blais, aged 29, hailing from
Spring Lake, NC, tragically passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, due to a devastating automobile accident.
Born on November 13, 1994, in Lee County, NC, Jonathan was a cherished member of the community. He spent his formative years in Cary, attending Davis Drive Elementary and Middle Schools. He attended Green Hope High School and earned a high school diploma from Central Carolina Community College in Sanford, NC. Jonathan continued his educational journey, earning degrees from Windward Community College in
Kaneohe, Hawaii, in 2016 and Mount Olive College in North Carolina in 2022. At the time of his passing, he was pursuing his graduate studies at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Jonathan proudly served his country as an infantryman in the U.S. Army from October 2016 to February 2020, stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, within the First Infantry Division. In 2019, his unit embarked on a mission to Europe in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve, offering valuable NATO training support. Jonathan's service was distinguished, earning him accolades such as the Army Achievement Medal with second oak leaf cluster, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, and the expert rifle marksmanship badge.
He is survived by his parents, Christopher and Linda (Sox) Blais; his brother, Jordan Blais; his sisters, Aeriell Blais and Candace Phallen; and the love of his life, Rica Magumway Malindan.
Jonathan's adventurous spirit led him on numerous travels, including visits to Germany, Poland, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and, most recently, an extended stay in the Philippine Islands. Following his honorable discharge from the Army, he and his cousin explored the Western United States and the Rocky Mountains, further embracing his love for adventure.
Jonathan was not only an extraordinary individual but also a soulful person who radiated boundless joy, depth, kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. His spirit of service knew no bounds, and he touched the lives of many with his selflessness and boundless compassion. Amidst all this, what truly set him apart was his profound sense of inner peace. Jonathan's ability to find tranquility within himself was an inspiration to all who crossed his path. Whether in the midst of adversity or simply sharing a quiet moment with loved ones, his inner peace radiated, offering solace and comfort to those around him. His pursuit of harmony within himself was a testament to his wisdom and strength, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of experiencing it. The love he shared, both in grand gestures and small everyday moments, emanated from this deep internal joy and will forever resonate in the hearts of those he held dear.
The family is honoring the Hawaiian tradition of adorning the departed and themselves with flower leis. The family believes this is a beautiful way to celebrate Jonathan's life and love for the Hawaiian Islands. The family encourages everyone to adorn themselves with a flower and is happy to receive flower arrangements at the church on the day of the service.
Additionally, if you have photos or videos of Jonathan that you would like to make available to the family, please email them to:
[email protected].
A funeral service in memory of Jonathan will take place at 3 pm on Friday, December 29, 2023, at Holly Springs Baptist Church, located at 385 Holly Springs Church Rd., Broadway, NC 27505. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Before the service, the family will host friends and loved ones to a viewing and gathering, which will take place from 2 pm to 3 pm at the church.
A celebration of life will be held from 3:00-6:00 PM January 6, 2024 at Dorothea Dix Park All Faith Chapel, 1030 Richardson Dr., Raleigh, NC 27603. Speaking will begin around 4:00 PM. Aloha and colorful attire are encouraged.
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to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Jonathan Luke Blais, please visit our floral store.