Biography:

“For I am persuaded that neither death not life … shall be able to separate is from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Tuesday, February 7, 2023—12:00 Noon
St. Luke AME Church
1872 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, New York 10031
Reverend Stephen A. Green—Officiating  

Rodney Robert Blake was born to the late Lucille Blake on March 10, 1955 in Charleston, South Carolina. Rodney is preceded in death by his brother the late Reverend James Gilbert Blake.

As a child Rodney attended grade school in South Carolina and relocated to New York City where he completed his education and graduated from Louis D. Brandeis High School.

Rodney loved all sports but at an early age he took a liking to bowling. He bowled at Lenox Lanes, the Batam Junior league, singles and doubles before moving onto the Adult League. Here he won many awards, patches and trophies. He possessed a unique style that would confuse many bowlers and he would bowl a perfect 175.  He was a champion.

Rodney always had a knack for building and fixing things.  He possessed several jobs, but the highlight of his career began in 1977 when he began as a typewriter technician for IBM. Rodney would spend 36 years at IBM advancing and obtaining several achievements and awards including Employee of the Year on several occasions.  It was here where he retired in 2013 to begin a new chapter of his life.

Rodney met the love of his life Aretha and was married in May 1994. From this union 2 children were born: Jocelyn and Rodney Blake Jr.  Rodney has always been a devoted husband and father, the epitome of a family man. Rodney was also known as the Community Dad to his children’s friends and neighbors and was always available to offer advice anyone.  Rodney loved traveling, entertaining, and spending time with his friends and family.  There was always a barbeque, a birthday party, a fight party or simply just a good time happening. Up until his untimely death he was preparing for the Super Bowl party at the “ManCave”.

 Rodney leaves behind to mourn him in death his loving wife Aretha, and his 2 children; Jocelyn and Rodney Blake Jr., & his GodSon James Dayvon Truitt who we lovingly raised as a son.  He also leaves behind his mother-in-law Joyce Kinnard, Sister in Law Princess Kinnard & 2 mothers in law Ed & Eric Kinnard, several nieces, nephews and great nieces.  In addition to his family Rodney leaves behind his confidant & birthday twin Charles Dennis, his extended family The Harlem Big Shots Motorcycle Club along with    hundreds of friends and neighbors that loved him.

He will be missed……

Lovingly Submitted by The Family