Evelyn Thomas Blalock

Evelyn Thomas Blalock, 57, passed away peacefully on Friday January 3, 2014 surrounded by family and friends after courageously fighting synovial cell sarcoma. Her strength and perseverance are an inspiration to all.

A native of Charlotte, Evelyn’s childhood passion for music inspired her to become a professional violinist. She first won a position in the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra when she was only 17. Her career with the Symphony spanned 37 years.

A founding member of “Carolina Strings” quartet, she served as manager and violinist from the group’s 1982 inception. She has played music for hundreds of weddings, church services, and other events in both Carolinas and Virginia.

Evelyn studied violin at Winthrop University, SUNY Buffalo, NC School of the Arts, and UNCC. She was instrumental in establishing the Charlotte Symphony Junior Youth Orchestra, also serving as its violin coach for several years. She inspired students of all ages in her private teaching studio.

Preceded in death by her father, John Anthony “Tony” Thomas, Evelyn is survived by her mother, Judith Holland Thomas; husband of 29 years and the love of her life, Bob Blalock; their son Bill and wife Veerle; grandsons Eli and Lukas; brother Robert “Bobby” Thomas and wife Marisa; brother-in-law Merritt Blalock and wife Mindy; niece Jennifer Hornung; and many dear friends, including her musician colleagues whom she considered her extended family.

Known for finding feathers everywhere she walked, Evelyn loved hiking and whitewater kayaking. She was an expert photographer and loved to knit. Alongside her K-9 Therapy companions Hoover and Kirby, Evelyn volunteered for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, and provided therapy visits to patients in nursing homes, hospitals, and hospice.

Evelyn shared a smile and caring word with everyone she met. Her insightful, clever, and quick wit brought joy to all her friends and family. She was a gracious advocate for those who needed support.

The family would like to thank Dr. Michael Livingston, and nurses Laurie Rosenthal, Sue Smith, and Gilly Hoare.

Family will receive friends from 2-4 pm on Thursday, January 9th at McEwen Funeral Services at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Sarcoma Foundation of America, http://www.curesarcoma.org, specify synovial cell sarcoma.