Steven (Steve) Eugene Blake Sr., of Christiansburg, passed away Feb. 12, 2025, at Carilion NRV Medical Center after a long illness.
Steve was a lifelong lover of pool, having competed in multiple pool leagues over the years. Known as “Dog Shot Steve,” he was best known for his defensive shots. He also enjoyed playing cards with friends in his basement or in the legendary back room at AMOCO. Steve loved camping, fishing, hunting, golf, throwing horseshoes, gardening and watching Washington Commanders football. And he insisted on calling them the Redskins! More recently, he gave his life to the Lord and was baptized in the New River by Pastor Lee Sarver of Walton Pentecostal Holiness Church. Even though he was unable to attend church physically, he made it a point to watch church services on TV every weekend.
When it came to work ethics, Steve’s were strong. He worked for many years at Lynchburg Foundry in Radford. After being laid off, he had a second career as a licensed wastewater treatment operator for Roanoke County and finally the Town of Christiansburg, where he retired. His work friends were a very important part of his life. He passed on that work ethic to his kids and grandkids and taught the importance of working hard for your family.
Steve is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Garnet June Blake; his children Steven Blake II (Jane Rorrer), Elisha Blake (Richie) Jeffrey, Sara Whitlow (Michael Edwards), Donna “Daizy” (Michael) Richardson and Charles (Julia) Shannon Jr.; grandchildren Bevin Dana Blake, Aralyn Opal Blake, and Marshall Drew Jeffrey; and many loved bonus-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lambert Eugene Blake and Alma Lorene Blake, and his son, Clinton Lee “Bud” Shannon.
The family would like to thank the team at Carilion NRV Medical Center and other Carilion facilities for their care during his illness.
The family received friends Sunday, Feb. 16 followed by a memorial service at McCoy Funeral Home, 150 Country Club Dr SW, Blacksburg with Pastor Lee Sarver officiating.