Edwin "Ed" Francis Blalock

Edwin Francis Blalock, 75
Of Valdosta, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, December 1, 2024. Born on March 24, 1949, in Tucson, Arizona, he was the son of the late Lieutenant Colonel Retired Eugene R. Blalock and Susie Frances Jones Blalock. Ed grew up in Homestead, Florida, and graduated in 1967 from South Dade Senior High School.
After high school, he pursued a bachelor’s degree in business from Florida State University. His career spanned several fields: he began as an insurance agent, building a successful career in the industry. Later, he worked with Roadway Express and was a proud member of the Teamsters Union. Afterward, Ed applied his business expertise as an instructor at Wiregrass Technical College, where he inspired and mentored many students.
Ed was a devoted Christian and a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Valdosta, where he actively contributed to the community and lived out his faith. In addition to his church involvement, he was also a proud member of the Elks Lodge #728 in Valdosta, where he forged meaningful connections and embraced the values of service and fellowship.
Ed had a deep love for animals, rescuing numerous dogs and cats throughout his life. His compassion extended beyond animals, as he was known for his servant’s heart and willingness to help others. Ed would often ask, "What can I do for you?" as a way to offer his support and kindness to everyone he met.
Ed is remembered for his generosity, warmth, and dedication to those he loved. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched.
Along with his parents, Ed is preceded in death by other loved ones Fred Husbands, Michael Husbands and Johnathan Michael Husbands.
Survivors include his loving wife of 31 years, Emily L. Blalock of Valdosta, Georgia; daughter, Rebecca Blalock DeVane (Thomas) of Dasher, Georgia; son, Damian Blalock (Amy) of Jesup, Georgia; daughter, Rachel Elizabeth Blalock (Fiancé Kyle Fave) of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; grandchildren: Amber Husbands, Matthew Husbands, Thomas Hart (Chance Smith), Webb Blalock, Cam Blalock, Savannah DeVane and Travis DeVane; great grandchildren: Hayden Hart and Laila Hart; brother, George Blalock (Lorrie M.) of Port Orange, Florida; special friends: Butch Purvis and Robert Simpson; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Riverview Memorial Gardens with Rev. Dennis Massie and Rev. Chuck Owens officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the First Baptist Church of Valdosta, 200 West Central Avenue, Valdosta, Georgia, 31601; Elks Lodge #728, 2309 US-84, Valdosta, Georgia 31601 or a charity of your choice. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com . The Blalock family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Valdosta.