Richard Leon Blaker Sr.

Richard Leon Blaker, Sr., age 78, of Freetown, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Blaker had a strong faith and was a member of Freetown Church of Christ. Richard was employed at Cummins Engine Co., retiring after 30 years of service. He was also an EMT with Ross Ambulance Service and worked as a reserve deputy with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department for many years. He was a dedicated member of the Pershing Township Volunteer Fire Department for more than 50 years, serving as chief of the fire department for 30 years. Richard was loved beyond measure by his family, and he loved and cherished his family. He also loved serving his community, and he had a passion for fishing and hunting. Born on July 30, 1946, at his home in Freetown, Richard was the son of Russell and Alma (Scott) Blaker, both of whom preceded him in death. On May 9, 1965, at Gorbett’s Chapel, he married Sarah Mullins, and she survives in Freetown. Survivors also include one son: Richard (Heather) Blaker of Medora; one bonus son, Terry (Marilyn) Mullins of Norman; one daughter, Lisa (David) Thompson of Freetown; one bonus daughter, Karen (Marvin) Fleenor of Freetown; 10 grandchildren: April Bowan, Jesse Blaker, Tyler (Katherine) Blaker, Rusty (Rosa) Blaker, Megan (Derek) Neukum, Zachary Thompson, Bailey Davis, Alia Davis, Jordan Davis, and Raymond Combs; two bonus grandchildren: Melissa (Chris) Wright and Angela (Nevin) Hallow; 15 great-grandchildren; one brother, Ronnie Blaker of Ocala, Florida; and one brother-in-law, Eugene Davis of Columbus. Besides his parents, Mr. Blaker was also preceded in death by four sisters: Marilyn Phillips, Betty Ownbey, Brenda Davis, and Kathy Maxom; daughter-in-law, Renee Blaker; and one sister-in-law, Joanne Blaker. Funeral services for Richard Leon Blaker, Sr. will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Freetown Church of Christ, with Pastor Barry DeWitt officiating. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Freetown Church of Christ. Interment will follow at Freetown Cemetery. Memorials may be given to Pershing Township Volunteer Fire Department. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff of Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc. Online memorials and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com

Richard Leon Blaker Sr.

July 30, 1946 - August 9, 2024