James was born March 24, 1943 in Reidsville, Georgia the son of the late James Olan Blocker Sr. and the late Lillie Grice Blocker. He was also preceded in death by an infant brother and a sister, Linda Lott.
James was a 1961 graduate of Glynn Academy. He also served his country with honor in the United States Navy. While in the Navy, he served as a radar tech, also serving in the Cuban conflict, and the Vietnam War. James was employed on the Project Gemini GT-3 with the U.S. Navy Recovery Force, Grissom and Young. After his honorable discharge from the United States Navy, he became a mechanic with Hercules and retired after thirty-one years of dedicated employment.
James was also a man of faith and was a member of College Place United Methodist Church. His early years James served on the Pastor Parrish Committee and various other committees over the years. James was a member of the Fellowship Sunday School Class. James was always willing to service and maintain the church bus. He was a devoted husband and friend that was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Left to cherish James’s memories are his loving wife of fifty-one years, Glenda G. Blocker of Brunswick, GA; his daughter, Vicky L. Nelson (Erik) of Chandler, AZ; his wonderful grandchildren, Ashley A. Nelson and Erik L. Nelson JR, also of Chandler Az. Hannah Grace Williams and Gannon J.T. Williams of McIntosh County, who James loved as his grandchildren. Two sisters, Mary B. Crosby and Brenda G Keene both of Brunswick, GA. A special Great Niece, January Crosby (who would sit and listen to James tell about his days spent on the USS-RICH for hours in fact she could be a tour guide today). Several nieces and nephews also survive.
James loved to spend time with family and friends. During his young adulthood, he enjoyed drag racing and was a competitive driver. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR. James was an avid football fan and cheered for his Georgia Bulldogs and the Washington Redskins. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. His family will have many fond memories to cherish for years to come.
The family will receive friends between 10:00 – 11:00 AM Thursday, November 1, 2018 at College place United Methodist Church. A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, November 1, 2018 at College Place United Methodist Church with Dr. Bill Daniel officiating. The inurnment will follow the service in Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville, Georgia with military honors.
Memorial contributions may be made in James’s memory to College Place United Methodist Church, 3890 Altama Avenue, Brunswick, GA 31520.
Arrangements are entrusted into the care of Edo Miller and Sons Funeral home.www.edomillerandsons.com
