Richard Terry Blake, age 82, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, in St. George, Utah. A man of deep kindness, generous spirit, and a legendary love for his community, Richard leaves behind a legacy of service and devotion.
Born in Cedar City, Utah, to Laver and Ilene Blake, Richard grew up in the red rocks of St. George. He was a proud graduate of Dixie High School and later Weber State College. On August 14, 1965, he was sealed to his eternal companion, Margarett McArthur, in the St. George Temple. Together, they built a life centered on faith and family.
Richard’s professional life was defined by his dedication to his students and athletes. As a biology teacher and coach at White Pine High School, he was deeply respected and loved, leaving a lasting impact on generations of young people through his mentorship and passion for learning.
Beyond the classroom, Richard was a man of many talents and simple pleasures. He was a master of the grill and famous for his homemade root beer. An avid gardener, he found great joy in growing fresh fruits and vegetables, which he generously shared with family, neighbors, and those in need. He loved traveling with his family, riding in the mountains on his four wheeler, and could often be found on the golf course, especially when caddying for his brother, Jay Don.
Richard is survived by his children: Julz (Mike) Laythorpe, Terry (Kim) Blake, Jaclyn (Bud) Rosenbruch, and Rochelle Westover; his sister, Joann; and his brothers, Rick and Jay Don. He also leaves behind several cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss his stories, tickles, and his warmth.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margarett; his granddaughter, Torey; his parents, Ilene and Laver Blake; and his siblings, Karl, Verla Jean, Ward, and Verlene.
**Services:**
A viewing will be held on March 5th, 2026, at Red Cliffs Chapel on 1285 North Bluff Street -St George, Utah, 84770 beginning at 1:00 PM. A celebration of his life and adventures will follow at 2:00 PM.
**Interment:**
Graveside services will be held at the Kanab Cemetery (26 North 100 East) on March 6th, 2026, at 11:00 am.
Richard’s life was a masterclass in how to love one’s neighbor. His memory will live on in every harvest shared and every glass of root beer or Pepsi poured in his honor. 🕊️🌱
You are invited to watch the services through the Zoom link below
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81912740174?pwd=NuaHrM44oDNnNDHkvsT4cCK066Frwa.1
My father, Karl passed away when I was 4 years old. Growing up in the Blake family, JayDon, the youngest of the brothers, was the celebrity. To most people, I was JayDon Blakes’s nephew. But in Dick’s eyes, I was Karl’s son, and because of that, I was special to him. I will always remember the special place I had in Dick’s heart, and the special love I have for him.