Gregory Darrell Blakes' Obituary
Life Tribute of Gregory Darrell BlakesGregory Darrell Blakes was born on October 6, 1957 in Richmond, CA to the late Samuel and Zeola Blakes. He departed this life on Friday, April 29, 2016.Greg attended De Anza High School in CA and played football. He continued on to Contra Costa Community College, where he honed his skills for the sport. He was recruited by Arizona State University under the leadership of Coach Frank Kush. During this time, he was adopted into the Russell/Davis family and met many of his lifelong friends.Greg’s childhood friend “T-Baby” nicknamed him “Bear” after seeing the animated film “The Jungle Book”, which includes a big, cuddly bear character with a deep booming voice.After getting approval from his cousin Mark Neal and the “Aunties”, Greg married Cheryl “Maji” Willis-Blakes on August 21, 1993. Greg presented Maji with his mother’s wedding ring, and a beautiful African wedding was enjoyed by family and friends. Greg and Maji have two children; Jamaica and Thair, and one grandson; Lonnie.Greg enjoyed coaching Pop Warner Football for 17 years. His legendary offensive line, aka “The Hogs”, were disciplined and unmatched. Coach Blakes and his brother of coaches lead the 49er Pop Warner team to win back-to-back championships.Greg also enjoyed fishing, taking many trips to Alaska, Mexico, California, etc. in search of the best fishing hole. He organized a yearly Men’s Fishing Trip that brought men and their sons together from locations throughout the U.S. for fellowship, fun and fishing.He also loved golfing and his favorite course is located in Pebble Beach, CA.Greg was a diehard Warriors fan even when they weren’t winning. The Giants and 49ers completed his trifecta of Bay Area professional sports teams. He was also known to give out nicknames such as, “Coldslaw, Bin Laden, and Crawdad”. Greg had a warm heart and loved people. He was always willing to share his wisdom, especially if you asked for advice as many did.He leaves to cherish and honor his memory, his wife Cheryl “Maji” Willis-Blakes; a daughter Jamaica King; a son Thair Blakes; a grandson Lonnie Reed-Perez; a brother Herb Davison, Sr. (Mary Ann) of Vallejo, CA; a father-in-law Lonnie Willis; a brother-in-law Damon Guidry; two nieces, Brenda Campbell and Jimette Kibwana; two nephews Anthony Arrington and Herbert Davidson, Jr.; a great-niece Jahmai, great-nephew Jahmil, and a host of relative and friends.
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