Betty Jean Blades

Betty Tucker married Bill Blades in June 1946 and started their railroad adventure of many towns, many states, and too many lasting friends to count, finally ending up in Roanoke (for the 3rd time) where all 3 kids had settled down. But even though moving was a way of life, Betty and Bill treated each home as their forever home -painting, landscaping, joining a church, getting the kids involved and making some more of those forever friends.  She loved to cook and entertain, play bridge, travel, golf, even tap danced.  And what a beautiful soprano voice, singing in every church choir in every town, or maybe even at Hidden Valley Country Club on a Friday night.  What a thrill it must have been to be re-united with loved ones, to be free and whole again, to see God face to face and join His heavenly choir. (And she and Bill probably just finished the front nine as you are reading this!)

She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Bill Blades; her parents and her sister. Betty is survived by Steve Blades (Joy), Debbie Reid (Robert) and Bob Blades (Sue Ann); grandchildren Stephen Blades (Teresa), Windy Ankofski, Kim Martin, Jay McMillan (Keri), Jennifer Hansen (Leif), Sara Justice (Travis), Laura Kelley (Grant), Matthew and David Blades; 11 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.  She loved and cherished them all.  The family would like to thank her many caregivers over the last 16 years and the wonderful staff of both The Village on Pheasant Ridge and Good Samaritan Hospice.

Visitation with the family will be from 6-8 pm on Monday, January 8, 2018 at Oakey’s South Chapel.  A Memorial Service will be held at Raleigh Court United Methodist Church at noon on Tuesday, January 9, 2018.  Flowers are appreciated, but memorial donations may be made to Raleigh Court United Methodist Church, Roanoke, VA.  Online condolences may be made at www.oakeys.com