Mary Stapleton Blake peacefully passed from this world on August 22, 2021. She was surrounded by family and friends in the days preceding her death and strongly felt the outpouring of love from those near and far.

Affectionately known by many names-"Mary Ann," "Myrt," "Shug," "Mom," "Mama B," and "Nana"-she was born July 16, 1933, in Fort Blackmore, Va., to William and Gladys Stapleton and grew up in towns throughout the area, graduating high school in Jenkins, Ky., where she formed lifelong friendships and met her future husband, John Wesley Blake, with whom she shared nearly 66 years of marriage.

As a U.S. Air Force spouse, she moved her family many times within the U.S. and abroad-making friends and memories in places like Texas, France, Germany, and Japan. Later, she embarked on a 20-year career with the U.S. Army civilian service, making an indelible impression on those with whom she worked at Fort Eustis and Fort Monroe.

She is survived by her husband, Lt. Col. (Ret) John W Blake Sr.; sons John Blake II (Tayna) of Chesapeake, Va. and Gregory Blake (Lisa) of Yorktown, Va.; daughters Jennifer Waagner (Walter) of Athens, Ga., Denise Tysinger (Mark) of Poquoson, Va., and Laura Tillett (Scott) of Cary, N.C.; and a sister, Nancy Prunty (Mike) of Lexington, Ky., as well as 12 beloved grandchildren and six adored great-grandchildren. The family would also like to recognize Marlene Welsh (Jim) for her steadfast friendship and care.