Richard Scott Rev. Blakley

Rev. Richard Scott Blakley, age 65, of Redlands, CA, peacefully departed this life in the company of his loving family on January 27, 2014. Rich was born to Ross and Margaret Blakley on January 12, 1949, in Phoenix, Arizona. The third oldest in a family of four boys, Rich s childhood was imbued with a joy and vitality that remained with him for a lifetime. In 1967, Rich left Phoenix to attend the University of Redlands. Upon graduation, his passion for social justice led him to the Claremont School of Theology, where he received a Masters in Divinity. Rich was one of the founding ministers of the Redlands United Church of Christ, where he faithfully served in many pastoral roles, including as Senior Minister. Throughout his ministry, he also served in youth and adult capacities for the First Congregational Church in Redlands and the Federated United Church of Christ in Dowagiac, Michigan. His abiding commitment to the inherent dignity of all people led to his involvement in the founding of organizations such as Food For All, The Christian Counseling Service, and Step by Step. After suffering significant hearing loss, Rich went on to work as an accountant for the Moreno Valley School District, where he ultimately served as Director of Accounting. Upon his retirement, he was honored to serve as the Pastor Emeritus of the Redlands United Church of Christ. Rich is remembered for his compassion, generosity, intelligence, wit, love of the Dodgers, and above all, his dedication as a husband, father, son, brother, uncle, pastor, and friend. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Kathie; sons, Ben and Timm; daughter-in-laws, Annie and Jenny; and brothers, Doug and Don. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, February 3, 2014, at Hillside Memorial Park. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 8, 2014, at the Redlands United Church of Christ. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rich s memory to either the Christian Counseling Service (51 W. Olive Ave., Redlands, CA 92373) or the Redlands United Church of Christ -- Building Fund (168 Bellevue Ave., Redlands, CA 92373).