David Ray Blake

David Ray Blake passed away over the weekend at his home in Midland. David was born in Big Spring, Texas, on June 16, 1962, to parents Betty and Charles Ray Blake. He was the baby of the family.

David’s father, Charles Ray Blake, and stepfather, Charlie Smith, both preceded him in death. David was also predeceased by an infant twin brother, Danny Jay, and brother-in-law Bruce Campbell.

David is survived by his mother, Betty Smith of Zephyr. David leaves behind a daughter and son-in-law, Tiffany and Brad Leckband of Sioux City, Iowa. His grandchildren include Tracer and Chloe Leckband and their children; Trista Leckband, Krista Leckband, Alisa Leckband, and Braden Leuenhagen.  He is survived by his siblings, Donald Blake and wife Donna, Belynda Campbell, Tahita Holloway and husband Jerry, Betty McKim and husband Ray, Sherry Smith, John Smith, Jim Smith and wife Valerie, along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A Martin County native, he graduated from Grady High School in 1981, where he earned his nickname of “Bullet”. Always lean and wiry, he was a willing player on the sports teams. Bullet was aerodynamic, if not fast.

He will be missed by those who loved him, but we are comforted by knowing he is now with Jesus and nothing can ever separate David from the love of Christ. We will be together in Heaven.

And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.

Ecclesiastes 12:7

Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at First Methodist Church in Stanton.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting a remembrance gift be given to Breaking Bread Ministries in David’s name, 410 E. Florida Avenue, Midland, TX 79701, 432-689-2339.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gilbreath Funeral Home of Stanton.  Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

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