VERNIE L. 'VERNLEE' BLAKE, 79 ROCKFORD - Vernie L. "Vernlee" Blake, 79, of Rockford departed this earthly life Wednesday, January 14, 2015, in OSF Medical Center, after a long illness. He was born February 11, 1935, in Chidester, Arkansas; the son of Ollie and Eunice Blake. Vernie lived in Rockford since 1955, coming from California. He married the former Edith Lockhart September 25, 1960, in Rockford. Vernie was employed as a truck driver by Burmac Metal Finishing 20 years, before retiring. He gradated from school in Chidester. Vernie leaves to cherish many loving memories, his wife, Edith; one son, Vernie Blake Jr.; three daughters, Theresa and Angela Blake and Patricia Friar; 8 grandchildren; brother, George (Linda) Blake; two sisters, Estella Boyd and Essie Lovelace; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and two sisters, Earthie Blake and Grace Butler. Special thanks to Alden Debes Subacute Center. Services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, January 23, 2015, at St. Paul Church of God in Christ, 1001 Bishop Washington Ave. Burial in Cedar Bluff Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home, 2429 W. State Street. Published in Rockford Register Star from Jan. 21 to Jan. 22, 2015