James F. “Butch” Blakely, Jr.

James F. “Butch” Blakely, Jr. aka. The Rock passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 7, 2021.

Born in Providence, he was a son of the late James F. Blakely, Sr. and the late Hazel B. (Glasco) Chase.

James was a pot scrubber for Saint Joseph’s Hospital for 39 years. He was known as “The Mayor Of East Providence” by his generation. He was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and a die-hard New England sports fan. Butch played softball for the Haven Methodist Church and was an avid bicyclist.

Butch and Richard had a special bond, which is evident by the influence that Butch has had on his brother’s life. “The Mayor” earned his title because of his friendliness and generous spirit. Butch made friends wherever he went. As a resident of Winslow Gardens, Butch was instrumental in lobbying for a pool table in the common area that brought him and many resident a place to socialize and bond. His friends at Winslow Gardens are amongst the many that will forever hold a special place in their hearts for Butch.

He leaves one sister, Sandra Y. Madison of Cranston, two brothers, Richard M. Blakely and his wife Suzanne of North Smithfield and Stefan Christianberry of California, two nephews, Garret Madison and his wife Cara of Swansea, MA and Corey Blakely and his wife Erin of Smithfield, two nieces, Karen Madison of Greenbelt, MD and Brandi Blakely Coutinho and her husband Carlos of Cumberland, four great nephews, Corey Blakely, Jr., Kyle Blakely, Myles Coutinho and Garret Madison, Jr., three great nieces, Mia Madison, Autumn Blakely and Joli Alicea.

His funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at 10:00 AM in the Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston, RI. Burial will be in Swan Point Cemetery.