Ben Richard Blalock, Sr.

WILLOW SPRING- Ben Richard Blalock, Sr., 86, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family. He was born at Blalock’s Crossroads in Wake County to the late Archie Sr. and Amanda Fish Blalock; he was also predeceased by brothers Archie Jr., Bobby and Carl Jackson Blalock. Ben was married 64 years to the love of his life, Sarah Ogburn, and to that union they were blessed to have three sons – Ben Jr. (Ricky) and wife Lynne, Tony and wife Jayme, all of Willow Spring, and Michael and wife Mary of Austin TX. His precious grandchildren are Tara Johnson and husband Jared of Clayton, Spencer Blalock of Willow Spring, Kristen Blalock of Willow Spring, and Charles Blalock of Austin TX. His “adopted” son Mark Van Valkenberg and numerous nieces and nephews also survive him. Ben grew up on the farm, worked hard, helped his widowed mother, and proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict, reaching the rank of Sgt. 1st Class. During his 34 years at Senter Sanders Tractor as service manager, he was known for his helpfulness to everyone. Even after retirement he enjoyed sharing his knowledge of tractors with former customers and friends, and even sharing his own equipment with them. He was known for his generosity and his gentle, caring nature to all who knew him. Ben served on the Board of Directors for the Hwy. 50 -210 Fire Department and was a former South Johnston High School Board member. He was a life-long member and church officer of Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church. Ben’s faith in Jesus Christ was evidenced in the life he lived, and this rich heritage was passed on to his children. He will be truly missed, but remembered as being a fair, just, and merciful man who walked humbly with his God. The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 31st at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, Angier, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. A celebration of Ben’s life will be held at Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church on Friday, April 1st at 3:00 pm. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial contributions be made in Ben’s name to his church: Mt Pleasant Presbyterian Church, 8001 Mt. Pleasant Church Rd., Willow Spring, NC 27592: or to the Frankie Lemmon School & Development Center, 2301 Stonehenge Drive, Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27615. A special thanks to the Transitions LifeCare staff  Julie, Jami, and Jenny, as well as relatives and friends for the support during Ben’s illness.