Marcel D Blakely

March 3, 1928 - May 5, 2020

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the Righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. II Timothy 4:7-8 Marcel D. Blakely peacefully answered his Master’s call on Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at Prisma Health Richland Medical Center. Born March 3, 1928, to the late George and Marian Hayes Blakely, he attended Waverly Elementary School and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. He earned both Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Arts degrees from South Carolina State College (now University). As an educator for over thirty years, he consistently provided nurturing, guidance, and mentoring for hundreds of students at W.A. Perry Middle School and C.A. Johnson High School where he taught Mechanical Drawing. Upon retirement, he worked at the Spring Valley Country Club for a number of years. He was committed to God and Chappelle Memorial AME Church where he was a lifelong member. At Chappelle, he served in various capacities including: Class Leader, Trustee Emeritus, member of the Sons of Allen, Man of the Year, and Honorary Father of the Church. In addition to his service at Chappelle, he served the larger community as an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated in their various charitable endeavors. Always active, Marcel learned to play golf in addition to his love of traveling. He maintained a positive outlook and served as an inspiration to all he encountered. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his older brothers: George E Blakely and William Blakely; and his sister Rosalee Blakely. He leaves to cherish precious memories five nieces: Carnetta Blakely of Raleigh, North Carolina, Gene Blakely (Sammie) Parks, Gwendolyn M. White both of Columbia, South Carolina, Glorya (Charlie) Rencher of Oakwood Village, Ohio, and Gladys M. Tolbert of Las Vegas, Nevada; two nephews: LTC (Ret.) William Blakely of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Gerald E. Blakely of Warr Acres, Oklahoma, all of whom affectionately called him Uncle Dent; a special and devoted friend Ruth Black and children; a host of other relatives and friends.