Irvin Eugene “Gene” Blake, 89, of Rockingham, passed away surrounded by his loving family Jan. 29, 2025, at Richmond County Hospice Haven.
Gene was a son of Irvin Grady Ragan and June Deese Blake and stepson to Curt Blake. Gene was born in High Point, North Carolina, Sept. 21, 1935.
Along with his parents, Gene is preceded in death by siblings Frank Blake and Frances Blake.
Gene was proud of working for CSX Railroad, formerly known as the Seaboard Coastline, for over 40 years. He was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his children, Debbie Blake and Max Blake (Brenda); grandchildren, Lance Miller (Heather) and Randi Wood (Walt); great-grandchildren, Jordan Wood, Nathan Wood and Josiah Miller; a brother, Marvin Blake (Joy) and Rachel “Rose” Lampley, who was his love and best friend.
The family will receive friends for visitation at Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. with services following at 2 p.m. with the Rev. David Lee officiating. Burial will proceed at Richmond Co. Memorial Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Roberdel Baptist School in Gene’s honor. Donations can be mailed to 1118 Richmond Road, Rockingham, NC 28379, or made online.
Online condolences can be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is assisting the Blake family.
