Emory Harrison Blake Jr., 70

MIDDLETOWN - Emory Harrison Blake Jr. of Middletown departed this life Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2008, at Christiana Care-Christiana Hospital, Newark. He was 70.

Mr. Blake was born Oct. 7, 1937, in Union Hospital, Elkton, Md., to the late Emory and Bertha (Davis) Blake.

He received his early education at Levi J. Coppin, Cecilton, Md., and graduated from George Washington Carver High School in 1955.

Mr. Blake retired after working 31 years for the Appoquinimink School District.

He really enjoyed gardening.

Mr. Blake also loved to play the guitar while his wife played the piano.

He joined the Rehoboth Church of God Apostolic in 1955. He served as a deacon and was a member of the men's choir and the board of trustees.

He leaves to cherish his memories his wife of 49 years, Frances; a daughter, Bonnie Blake of Middletown; two grandchildren, Tamrell and Brandon Blake of Middletown; two great-grandchildren, Brionna and Premiere; a sister, Bernice Blake of Elkton; one neice, La Trish Barnett; one nephew, Orlando Johnson of New Castle; five sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law; one aunt, Dorothy Davis; and a host of cousins and church family.

Funeral services will be at noon on Saturday at Rehoboth Church of God Apostolic. A viewing will be held from 9 to 11:45 a.m. at the church.

Burial will be at Union Bethel Cemetery, in Cecilton.

Arrangements by Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Dover.