Lt Col Blake was born in Pinehurst, NC and grew up in Jacksonville, NC and attended Camp Lejeune High School, Camp Lejeune, NC. Graduating from East Carolina University in 1957, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant into the United States Marine Corps. During his military career he held many command and staff billets commensurate with career development. Platoon Commander as a Lieutenant, Commander of a Marine Corps detachment aboard the USS Helena, Company Commander and culminating his career as Battalion Commander. He served in Vietnam and at Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Arlington, VA. During his military career, Lt. Col Blake won numerous tennis tournament titles going as far as All Marine and All-Service rankings. He retired in 1977.

Upon retirement he located in Northern Virginia and entered the life insurance business. He won several industry awards and taught insurance courses to other agents seeking professional designations. In 1998, he was presented the "James L. Thompson", award by the Northern Virginia Life Underwriters Association. This recognizes the Association's "Man of the Year".

He never lost his love for tennis and basketball. Upon settling in Northern Virginia, he immersed himself into community involvement working with youths. He conducted tennis camps and recruited, trained, assigned referees to work youth basketball games and often refereed himself. In 1995, he was recognized by Mount Vernon Youth Association as their "Man of the Year" for his dedication and unselfish giving of his talents and time for the benefit of local youth.

In 2003 he was inducted into the Lejeune High School, "Hall of Distinction" at Camp Lejeune High School, based on the accomplishments above and community involvement.

Lt Col Blake is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Betty June (Davenport) Blake; two daughters - Jamie Gayle Blake and Elizabeth June Blake of Alexandria, VA; a brother Dr. Gerald Wayne Blake and his wife Mittit and Raleigh, NC. He was predeceased by his parents Pearl Harris and Gurney Blake, and two brothers Harold Blake and Col. Richard Blake.

The family will receive friends on July 26, 2005, at DEMAINE FUNERAL HOME, Alexandria, VA from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Funeral service will be held on July 27, 2005, 4 p.m. at Aldersgate Methodist Church, 1301 Collingwood Rd., Alexandria, VA, reception following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lejeune "Hall of Distinction" Foundation, P.O. Box 791, Jacksonville, NC 28541-0791.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Jul. 26, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for James Blake

6 Entries

Chris Condetti

July 28, 2005

I will miss Jim very much. He was one of my best volunteers for youth at Fort Belvoir. He was also a good friend, he supported me in times of need. He will always stay in my thoughts and prayers.

Chris Condetti

Fort Belvoir Youth Sports Director

Gloria Lee

July 27, 2005

Betty June, Jamie, and Elizabeth,

Thinking of You

This morning as I rose from bed and saw the sun above

I said, "Good Morning, God,

Bless everyone I love."

And right away I thought of you

And said a loving prayer

That He would bless you specially

And keep you in His care.

I know God heard my prayer for you

He hears them all you know.

Love, Gloria and Sonny Lee

DARYL PRICE

July 26, 2005

TO THE BLAKE FAMILY,

COL BLAKE WILL BE MISSED BY HIS MANY FRIENDS AT THE PENTAGON ATHLETIC CENTER. I AM GLAD I GOT THE CHANCE TO SPEND TIME WITH HIM LAST WEEK AT THE CENTER. WE LOVED HIM DEARLY; AND WILL MISS HIS PRESENCE. MAY GOD BLESS AND COMFORT YOU!

DARYL PRICE

NIGHT OPERATIONS MGR

PENTAGON ATHLETIC CENTER

Lynda Falkenstein

July 26, 2005

Robert and I send you our love.

Laney Hodge Edwards

July 26, 2005

Mrs. Blake, Jamie Gayle, and Elizabeth, I just wanted to let you know that the Hodge children are holding you close in our thoughts and prayers. Our Dad, Ron, loved your husband and father more than he could have loved a brother. He treasured his friendship. Ronald, Leslie and I will always remember Mr. Blake for the love and kindness he extended to our Dad. We will also remember the last gift Mr. Blake gave to us - at the conclusion of the Hall of Distinction ceremony - when he took us around Camp LeJeune to point out important landmarks and share memories that belonged to our parents and grandparents. What a special man he has been to so many of us. We will continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Much love, Laney Hodge Edwards

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