William R. "Bob" Blake Sr.

William R. "Bob" Blake Sr., 91, of St. Augustine, passed away Wednesday, Sept.13, 2017, at Flagler Hospital.

He was a native of Palatka and moved with his wife, Rosemary, to St. Augustine in 1999. After having served the First Baptist Church of Palatka as a deacon and trustee for decades, Mr. Blake quickly became an active member of Ancient City Baptist Church. He loved his church family and served as a dedicated member of the choir as well as a deacon. He was always active in his community, serving as president of Kiwanis, a leader in Boy Scouts, and for more than 50 years as a member of the Masonic Lodge, initially as a member of Lodge #34 in Palatka and then Lodge #98 in St. Augustine.

Shortly after graduating from high school, Mr. Blake enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps and was trained as a B-29 tail gunner during World War II. He was also later recalled during the Korean War. Mr. Blake attended the University of Florida after WWII, but left school when his father died and returned to help run the family business, Blake's Incorporated, with his siblings Jack and Wilmer Blake. After Blake's Inc., he was employed 23 years until his retirement with the Putnam County District School Board. His pastimes included Florida Gator football, being at his mountain home, reading, playing dominoes and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He deeply loved his family and church. Many described him as a southern gentleman, and he will be remembered by all for his helpful spirit and countless acts of kindness.

Mr. Blake was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Rosemary Blake. He is survived by his children, William R. (Bob) Blake Jr. and his wife, Carolyn; John F. Blake and his wife, Janet; Jan Blake Wiswesser and her husband, Richard; grandchildren, Kelly Blake McDaniel and her husband, Chris, and Blake Wagner; and great-grandchildren, David and Selah McDaniel.

Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Ancient City Baptist Church, 27 Sevilla St., St. Augustine, FL 32084 with visitation immediately afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be made in his memory to Ancient City Baptist Church.

Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Bob's Book of Memories page at JohnsonOverturffunerals.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.