In Memoriam: Fair Haven-Raised Longtime Red Bank Resident, Edith Blake, 108

Fair Haven-raised Edith Antoniette Albert Blake, a beloved matriarch and longtime resident of Red Bank, passed away peacefully on March 7, at the age of 108, surrounded by her loving family in Toms River.

“Born on Feb. 25, 1918, Mrs. Blake lived a life defined by devotion to family, faith, and community. She attended Fisk Street School in Fair Haven, New Jersey, at a time when it was the only K–8 school available for Black children in the area. Those early experiences shaped a lifetime marked by resilience, compassion, and quiet strength …

“Mrs. Blake dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She worked as a trusted caregiver for numerous families throughout the Fair Haven, Little Silver, and Red Bank communities, where she was known for her kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication. Her faith was central to her life. She was a devoted member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Red Bank, where she was active in the church choir and participated in many church groups and activities over the years. Her presence and voice were cherished parts of the church community …

“Mrs. Blake’s extraordinary life, spanning more than a century, touched countless people. She will be remembered for her deep faith, gentle spirit, and the enduring love she gave to her family and community.”
Loved ones of Edith Blake in her obituary

On February 14, 1938, she married Charles Blake, in Queens, NY. They were married 52 years until his passing in 1990. Together they raised four children and built a legacy that continues through generations.

Mrs. Blake was preceded in death by: her husband, Charles Blake; and three of her children, Wilma Pulling and her husband James, Ione Perry and her husband, Ernest; and Charles Blake Jr.

She is survived by: her daughter, Brenda Bacon; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 20 great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews and extended family members and friends “who will cherish her memory and the love she shared throughout her long and remarkable life.”

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 13, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 14, at 10 a.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 26 E. Sunset Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701. Burial will follow the service at Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls.

In lieu of sending flowers, Mrs. Blake requested making a donation to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), https://www.chop.edu.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Thompson Memorial Home