Raymond L. Blake, Jr., 69, Indian Head

Raymond Levi Blake Jr., 69, of Indian Head, peacefully departed this life on November 6, 2011 at his home, surrounded by loving family and friends.

Born December 24, 1941 in Baltimore, Maryland; he was the son of Levi R. Blake and the late Dorothy A. Ford.

Mr. Blake was educated in the Prince George's County school system and graduated from Douglas High School with music achievements in trumpet and keyboards. He went on to attend Business College for one year following graduation and was gainfully employed at the Naval Surface Warfare Center for 11 years. Raymond's love for business, music, and a dedication to help his family and community propelled him to fulfill many other interests in his life. Most notably was his tax preparer service "Blake's Tax Services" which, he developed and expanded into a 25 year career. He was also credited for leading numerous workout sessions and meetings with Senator Barbara Mikulski of Maryland which won his community a $6.5 million Civil Rights law Suit.

In addition to his father he is succeeded in life by his wife, Theresa Gloria Blake, sons; Raymond L. Blake, III, Thomas N. Blake, Sr., and Eric. B. Blake, daughters; Kimberly L. Walton, Ramona T. Thomas, Gwendolyn P. Blake, and Estelita Proctor, 3 sons-in-law, 3 daughters-in-law, 23 grandchildren and a host of loving brothers, sisters, special friends and relatives.

Visitation, 6pm until 9pm with Prayer Service, 7pm on Friday, November 11, 2011 at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 30 Mattingly Avenue, Indian Head, Maryland and on Saturday, November 12, 2011 from 8:30am until Mass of Christian Burial, 10am. Arrangements are being handled by Thornton Funeral Home, P.A. Indian Head, Maryland.