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James F. Blake

December 21, 1932 - February 12, 2011
Service
Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home
3800 N. Big Spring St
Midland, Texas 79705
Wednesday 2/16, 2:00 pm
Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home
3800 N. Big Spring St
Midland, Texas 79705
Tuesday 2/15, 3:19 pm
Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home
3800 N. Big Spring St
Midland, Texas 79705

James F. Blake, 78, of Midland passed away peacefully at home on February 12, 2011. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at Fairmont Park Church of Christ, with Scott Sheppard officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening at Nalley-Pickle and Welch FuneralContinue Reading

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jozzai doster left a message on January 13, 2022:
In memory of James F. Blake, jozzai doster lit a candle
Janet and David Orr left a message on February 17, 2011:
As parents of children at Midland Christian School, we always appreciated Coach Blake and his calm and Christ-like demeanor. He was especially a big influence on our oldest son as he went out for track and for football mainly due to Coach Blake's gentle encouragement. I'll never forget how he was on the sidelines as he put his hand on a boy's shoulder for instruction and encouragement. We are saddened by the loss, but rejoice to know he is in heaven now.
Donnie Simpson left a message on February 16, 2011:
I'll never forget Coach Blake's laugh, his smile and his even temperament. Nor, will I forget the time he trusted me to come off the bench (which I always kept warm) to shoot two free throws for an injured player in a close game against Coahoma. (Fortunately, I made them both). He was a fine man who touched hundreds of lives and will never be forgotten.
Charles and Betty Skeen left a message on February 16, 2011:
Pat, I am so sorry to hear about Coach Blake. He was a coach and Mentor to me and later were friends as Supts. To show my graditude to James I went to the State tourney when he took a team to State. Sent him a black and white coronations to wear to the games. Also wrote words of encourgement to him. I always wanted to tell him I did that but let it slip buy. I don't think he knew who sent the flowers. I pray that God brings comfort to you and your family. God is good and may God Bless. My heart hurts.
Jan Stockton left a message on February 16, 2011:
Pat and Family: I was so saddened when I received the emails yesterday. Coach Blake was perhaps the one teacher who inspired me most while at FHS-both academically and on the court. To this day, as a tribute to him, I never set foot on the court without some of his instructions flooding in..."jump higher", "reach for the ball", "use both hands!" I still honor those phrases to this day when I compete in the Senior Olympic Games. I play this coming Sat. and I can assure you he will be on the court with me. Thank you for sharing him with me. God Bless You.- #40.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Joe and Janeice Barnes left a message on February 16, 2011:
Pat and family so sorry to learn of James death but know without a doubt all is well. He was an inspiration to us all and I think of all the many trips and good times we had with you both while I was on the school board. Sorry we were unable to see you during this time but prior schedules prevented us from being there. Will try to see you later. Take care. Love to you, the kids and grandkids.
Gilbert R. Birdsong left a message on February 16, 2011:
I grew up with James and we spent many happy hours playing ball and just hanging out. I still remember the big silver colored horse James's Dad bought for him to ride. No one ever rode him. I remember his Step Mom and his step sisters and what a fine family they made. I can't forget the home made Ice Cream we shared on hot summer days after playing ball. James was what you call, a fine and good man and he will be missed! Gil Birdsong
Lynn and MB Maxwell left a message on February 16, 2011:
I only knew Coach Blake for one year as a student, but then we were associated professionally later on in my career. I always respected his Christian approach to life. He was an example to me as I became an administrator. I wish Dad were able to put his words here, but his condition doesn't allow that. He is fully aware of the loss and is deeply sorry for the loss to the family. He says the same thing he did when Mom passed away---it must have been time and he was certainly prepared.
David H. Redwine left a message on February 16, 2011:
James Blake was one of my first trusted mentors when I arrived at Forsan High School in 1964 as a first year teacher and coach. He made a great first impression that only elevated with each of our interactions. His legacy will live on as long as the many thousands of those whose lives he touched are alive. Long live girls basketball Coach Blake. Rest in Peace.
Mary Jo (Simpson) Walker left a message on February 15, 2011:
I can't even begin to express the admiration and love I had for Coach Blake. His guidance and understanding helped me through many tribulations during my teenage years when I needed it most. He was a great teacher, coach and man. I was lucky to have known him.
Bonnie Simpson Carter left a message on February 15, 2011:
I was so saddened to hear of the death of Coach Blake. He coached me in basketball and volleyball when I was a student at Forsan. He was the kindest and most tolerant of men. He never yelled but he could get us to play our hearts out and always give our best. We all loved him.
Jimmy Anderson left a message on February 15, 2011:
We are saddened to learn of the death of Coach Blake; he will be greatly missed. Coach Blake was a huge influence on me and my life when playing football for him during the late '50's at Forsan High. A man who dedicates his life to influencing young people will have a special place in heaven; the angels must be rejoicing to have him home. God bless each of you who love him.
Connie Howell left a message on February 14, 2011:
James was truly a great man in every aspect of his life. Our family admired and respected him. His legacy will live on the memories of all who knew him.
Marty Farris left a message on February 14, 2011:
My deepest sympathy to the entire family. James and I shared the same birthday and I felt fortunate to be their neighbor. With my love and sympathy, Marty
Lisa Iden Powell left a message on February 14, 2011:
Coach Blake is the reason why I became a teacher/coach. He touched my life and made such an impact on me. I love that man and he made such a difference in my life. I'm so thankful that God placed him in my life. He had such a gift of making you feel like you were the most special person in the world. I will cherish his letters of encouragement he wrote to me and will try to be the type of coach he was to all his players. He taught me to be a winner on and off the court. He was always there for me and I knew he would do anything in the world for me. I love you COACH BLAKE with all my heart! Lisa Iden Powell
Paula Woods Baker left a message on February 14, 2011:
I can truly say Coach Blake had such an influence on my life and so many others as a teacher, coach and friend. I still often think of him and as I watch my granddaughter play basketball I find myself saying some of the very same things he taught me. He was a wonderful christian man that blessed so many lives and will truly be missed by all. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time. Paula Woods Baker Class of 1969--Sands High School
Byron & Diana Hill left a message on February 14, 2011:
I share in your grief sorrow of your spouse & father. I really like your dad and I could go to him and he always made me fill good with what ever situation was. He had good answers and biblical. He is in the comfort of the Lord without pain or sorrow.
Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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