Raymond “Ray” Thomas Blades, Jr., age 62, of Elkton, MD, passed away on Monday, October 31, 2022. He was born in Wilmington, DE on August 25, 1960 to the late Raymond Thomas Blades, Sr. and Bertha Delerna (O’Neil) Blades.

Ray was a loving father and a great provider. He was a member of the Local Union 27 for 45 years. Ray enjoyed watching sports and was an avid Steelers fan, while also rooting for all of his children’s sports teams. Ray’s family was the most important thing to him, especially his grandchildren. He loved history and had a passion for the Civil War.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Meck; four children: Michael and Jamie Meck, Amanda Blades, Raymond T. Blades, III and his wife, Melissa, and Joshua Blades; nine grandchildren: Shayne and Jayden Clark, Ava, Audrey, and Andrew Meck, Caleb and Cameron Blades, and Olivia and Addison Blades; sister, Linda and Harry McMinn; brother, Edward and Beverly Blades; and best friend, Bill and Debbie Meekins.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 11, 2022 at Mount Zion Church, 1643 Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21015 where family and friends from 10:00 am. Burial will be held at Brookview Cemetery.