Irene L. Blake

Irene L. Blake of Broadneck, MD, departed this life December 28, 2022, at the age of 84. She was born the eldest child to the late Allen M. Johnson, Sr., and Anna Louise Johnson on September 24, 1938, on Johnsontown Rd, Quakerneck, MD. She graduated from Garnett High School in Chestertown, MD, with the Class of 1956 and later that year, in November of 1956, she was joined in matrimony to Herbert Blake. Irene was a caregiver and a babysitter for various families as a teenager. She worked Vita Foods, Campbell Soup, and Washington College. From there she was a private duty nurse until her retirement in 2017. She was a lifelong member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church where she served as an Usher and president of the Souls of Faith Choir. She was also a member of the United Methodist Women and sang in the 100 Voice Choir and The Chancellor Choir. She was a faithful asset anywhere and anytime she could be of service. Irene loved cooking and baking for family and friends. She prepared the most delicious meals. Her specialty was homemade rolls and homemade ice cream. She enjoyed sewing and making her own clothes. She truly loved family and family gatherings. Irene was affectionately known as “Granny” by her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will forever be known as a beautiful soul and sweet spirit. Irene is preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Louise Johnson; her husband, Herbert Blake; and her sister, Bernice Butler. Irene leaves to mourn her daughter, Joann Miller; grandchildren, Tyran Miller (Courtney) and Michaela Miller; great-grandchildren, Samari, Jayden, Noah, and Wynter; one brother, Allen M. Johnson Jr. (Ruby); one sister, Christine Burke; five godchildren, Earl Blake Jr., Daniel Dorsey Sr., Lori Butler Perry, Latoya Burke, and Latoya Green; one uncle, Walter Dickerson (Yolande) from Brooklyn MD; one sister-in-law, Shirley Dorsey; her lifelong friends, Minerva Phillips, Leon “Mousie” Roberts, John Hunter, and Barbara Warner; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Services will be held on Sunday, January 8, at 1 p.m. at Fellows, Helfenbein, and Newnam Funeral Home in Chestertown. A visitation will be held two hours prior, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the funeral home.

Irene L. Blake

September 24, 1938 - December 28, 2022