Kenneth Clay Blalock, age 81, of Hartwell, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2023, following an extended illness.

He was born February 24, 1942, in Anderson, SC, the son of the late Claude O'Dell and Lillian Powell Blalock. He retired from Tenneco as a maintenance technician after forty-two years of service. He was a member of Canon Church of God. He loved animals, especially dogs, leaving behind faithful canine companions, Charlie and Nitty. Mr. Blalock cherished his family and was a devoted son and brother, a loving husband, and a caring father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson: Matthew Tyree; and brothers: Ronald P. Blalock and Timothy S. Blalock.

He is survived by his wife of sixty years: Reba Thrasher Blalock; children: Rebecca B. Stewart (Gary) of Bowersville, Keith Blalock of Bowersville; Mark Blalock of Hartwell, Samuel Blalock (Kim) of Hartwell; grandchildren: Rebekah C. Stewart, Brandon K. Blalock (Kailey), Holly C. Blalock, Dakota Tyree (Allyson), Brooke D. McCollumn (Kyle), Brady Blalock (Valerie); seven great-grandchildren; sisters: Etrulia L. White of Anderson, Ann B. Goldman (Mickey) of Palm Desert, CA, Lynn B. Adkins (Kenny Sanders) of Canon.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 14, 2023 at Mt. Olivet Church of God with Rev. Gary Stewart and Rev. Timothy Carter officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church for two hours prior to the service.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.