James Harold Blakley

James H. Blakley, age 84 of Gatesville, passed away on the morning of November 16, 2020 in Gatesville. Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 19, 2020 at Pearl Cemetery with David Booth officiating. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service at the cemetery.  

James was born on June 14, 1936 in Pearl, TX to the late Jimmie and Lena Blakley. He grew up in and around Coryell county and attended school in Pearl. He married Bettie Sydow on March 10, 1956 in Gatesville. James joined the Army National Guard in 1957 spending seven years serving with one year of active duty before being Honorably Discharged. He then went to work for the Army Air Force Exchange and retired after 33 years and was recognized with a “Distinguish Service Award”. In 1991 James went to work for Evant I.S.D where he worked as a maintenance man and bus driver. He was a devoted husband and father to his boys. He always attended all their school functions and helped in many of the Elementary play days. James was a member of Pearl Baptist Church for 60 plus years serving in numerous roles.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Doris Lee; niece, Brenda Lee.

James is survived by his wife of 64 years, Bettie Blakley; sons, Michael Blakley, Robert Blakley and wife, Carolyn; granddaughter, Emma Blakley; niece, Glenda Timmons.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to The Pearl Community Center, c/o Bettie Blakley 2082 FM 1690 Gatesville, TX 76528; Pearl Baptist Church c/o Connie Long 5685 CR 139 Gatesville, TX 76528; or a Charity of your choice.