Esther G. Blake, 96, of Franklin, North Carolina died Saturday June 20, 1999 in a local nursing home.

She was a native of Richland County, Illinois, born September 9, 1902, the daughter of the late Frederick and Nettie (Egleston) Gruber. She was a homemaker and was of the Baptist faith. She was active in her church and enjoyed handwork and sewing. She was married for 59 years to the late Charles R. Blake.

Esther is survived by two daughters, Betty L. Dieckmann and Barbara A. Barnes, both of Franklin; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Memorial services at First United Methodist Church with Revs. Thomas Griffis and Ruth Ann LeBlanc officiating.

Bryant Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

Published in The Franklin Press (NC) ~ June 23, 1999