Blalock - Leroy Blalock, age 75, of Callahan, Florida entered his eternal resting place in the arms of his Savior on January 12, 2024. He was surrounded by his doting wife, June and their two children, Christy and Wayne. Leroy was a devoted, loving husband of 51 years to his wife Neva "June" (Hodges) and the best Daddy, Poppie, family, and friend anyone could ask for. Leroy was born May 20, 1948, to Charlie Ruff Blalock Sr. and Rena (Griffis) Blalock. He was born in Lawtey, Florida, but lived his entire life in Callahan, Florida.  He was drafted into the United States Army and deployed to Vietnam from 1968-1970 with the 1st Battalion 92nd Artillery Regiment Brave Cannons, also known as the Red Devils.  Leroy was heroically awarded the Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device for exceptional heroism during a heavy fire attack while in the Republic of Vietnam on May 13, 1969. He was also awarded the prestigious Purple Heart for being wounded in combat.  Upon his return from Vietnam, Leroy continued his service with the United States Army as a reservist until 1974. During this time, he met the love of his life Neva "June" who he lovingly referred to as June Bug. They were married on December 15, 1972, in Kingsland, Georgia and settled in Callahan, Florida to raise their family.

Leroy worked for many years as an automobile paint and body man for Water's Paint and Body before retiring to his recliner. Paint and bodywork was a craft that he mastered, loved and continued to dabble in later in life. Leroy even worked with his son just last year to smooth and paint his granddaughter's first car.

Leroy loved Jesus Christ, old gospel, old western movies, square dancing exhibitions with his wife, deer hunting, running his deer dogs, fishing, baseball, softball, racing, the Florida Gators, and spending time with his two children, Christy and Wayne as well as his niece, Janice who lovingly referred to him simply as "Pest". He was dedicated to his family and instilled morals, the love of the outdoors, and the value of hard work. Leroy was always "dressed to a T" and always on time, saying "If you aren't 15 minutes early then you're late".

In later years, after being blessed with grandchildren, Leroy developed a love for girls' fast pitch softball and devoted his time to coaching and watching his grandkids play. He loved the game so much he trained and became a certified umpire with North Florida Umpires Association. Leroy proudly showcased his achievement as an umpire and his love of the game by wearing his favorite North Florida ("NF") hat almost everywhere he went.

Christy and Wayne both argue they were Leroy's favorite child; however, it was very clear to those who knew Leroy that his dog Tanner was indeed the favorite. Tanner will forever hold the record as the only "fur family" ever allowed to live inside the house.

Leroy was a faithful member of Camden Baptist Church in St. Marys, Georgia. His Pastor Edward Dixon was more than just "the Preacher", he became a treasured best friend. Leroy spent many of his days working at the church and enjoyed fellowship with his church family. Leroy is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Ruff Blalock Sr. and Rena Griffis Blalock, as well as 8 of his 10 siblings, Richard Blalock, Charlie Blalock Jr., Jake Blalock, Jimmy Griffis, David Griffis, Lorraine (Blalock) Males, Estelle (Blalock) Thomas and an angel baby, Dale Blalock.

Leroy is survived by his wife, June; daughter, Christy (Eddie) Holton; son, Roy "Wayne" (Jamie) Blalock; 6 grandchildren, Hailey (Macie) Ray, Anna Phillips (Travis Simmons), Chance Blalock, Ally Rice, Ava Blalock, April (Thomas) Collins; 5 great grandchildren, Braelynn, Landri, Kambree, Addison, and Austin; sister, Rosie (Ken) Morgan; baby brother, Franklin "Beatle" Blalock.  Leory is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and other family members on both sides, but he was particularly close to his nephew, George James and niece, Janice Griffis.

Pallbearers will be Wayne Blalock, Chance Blalock, George James, Carl Morris, Jeff Back and Jason Murphy.

A Celebration of Leroy's Life will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Nassau Funeral Home with Pastor Edward Dixon officiating. Interment will follow at Jones Cemetery where military honors will be rendered (45111 Jones Cemetery Road, Callahan, Florida 32011). The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 18, 2024, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Camden Baptist Church (725 Douglas Drive, St. Mary's, Georgia 31558). The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.