Obituary of James Burr Blake

James B. Blake ASHTABULA- James 'Jim' Blake, 90, of Ashtabula passed away at his home on October 10, 2018. He was born in Ashtabula on May 25, 1928, the son of Lisle K. and Amelia (Burr) Blake. He was a graduate of Ashtabula High School 1946, and Ohio State University, 1951. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean Conflict 1953-54. In 1959 he married Mary Ellen Mills in Philadelphia, PA. In 1963 they moved to Ashtabula. He taught school for 24 years, mostly in the Ashtabula City Schools, West Jr. High and AHS, teaching history, sciences and Special Ed. Jim was known for many things: as a great lover of music, both as listener and participant, singing in the Ashtabula Town Choir, Men of Praise, Ashtabula County Choral Music Society and his church choir; a proud patriot and lover of American history and member of the Sons of the American Revolution; a writer: letters to the editor, poetry, and historical writings; for his sense of humor; an active Christian in his church and community; and beloved great-grandpa, grandpa, father, and husband. For many years he was active in CONTACT Teleministries of Ashtabula and in pro-life activities. He was preceded in death by his siblings, daughter Sharon in 1984 and son in law Ron Bede. Surviving him are his wife, Mary Ellen, daughters Ruth Bede, Janice Layman; grandchildren Michael Bede (Sarah), Ellen Hull (Tom), Dennis Layman (Jenna), Sara Layman, Ashley Swatowski (John), Amanda Layman (Pierce Capone), adopted daughter Charmaine Thomas; great grandchildren Ryleigh, Gabriella, Bella, Cameron, Marleigh, Holland, Logan, Ben, Cooper, Judah, and Eloise. Memorial Services will be held at 12 Noon Monday, October 15, 2018 at First Baptist Church of Ashtabula. Don Jacobson, Pastor will officiate. Burial will be in Saybrook Cemetery; with Military Honors being provided by the American Legion, Dewey-Howlett Post #103 of Ashtabula. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until time of service at 12:00 Noon, at the First Baptist Church. Jim and his family would prefer that no flowers be sent; instead they would generously send donations in his name to First Baptist Church or Camp Koinonia of Geneva. The Blake Family would like to thank the staff of the Hospice of the Western Reserve for the wonderful care given to Jim as he completed his homeward journey. Ducro Funeral Service and Crematory, 4524 Elm Avenue, Ashtabula, Ohio is assisting the family.www.ducro.com