Howard Roland Blake

Howard Roland Blake

Howard Roland Blake, affectionately known by many as “Brother,” a name rooted in his role as the firstborn son among his sisters, was born on July 1, 1958, in Chester, Pennsylvania, to the late Howard and Vivian Blake.

Howard was educated in the Chester-Upland School District. At an early age, he developed a strong foundation rooted in faith, service, and a love for God. He began his journey at St. Luke C.C. Church as an altar boy—planting the seeds that would later grow into his calling as a Deacon, one of his greatest and most meaningful accomplishments.

Howard’s faith was not confined to the walls of the church—it was reflected in how he lived, how he served, and how he showed up for others. Above all, he loved his family deeply and took pride in being a father, grandfather, provider, and protector.

Howard was a man of quiet strength and steady presence—someone who didn’t have to say much to be felt. The seed of service planted in him by his mother became a defining part of who he was, extending far beyond his home and church and into the Chester City community, where he left a lasting impact.

Through his lawn care work, Howard often gave his time and effort freely—cutting grass for others simply because it needed to be done. His servant’s heart reached beyond obligation; it was simply who he was. He also took pride in mentoring others, including his mentee, Nasir Ruddle, sharing not only his knowledge of landscaping, but also the values of hard work, consistency, and service.

He was also known for the simple, familiar things that made him unforgettable. Rarely seen without his signature toothpick, it became a quiet but recognizable part of who he was. His laugh, his presence, and the way he carried himself left an impression that words cannot fully capture.

Howard had a deep appreciation for music, especially the timeless sounds of The Whispers, Earth, Wind & Fire, and his favorite song, “Gangsta Lean” by DRS. If you truly knew Brother, then you knew the Dallas Cowboys were his team and his favorite television show was Martin.

Howard was a hardworking and dedicated man. He was employed at Evergreen Car Wash and M&M Industries and later spent 18 years at Sam & Sam Meat Market, where he became a familiar and respected presence. His faith is something he carried everywhere he went, he never hesitated to invite others to “St. Luke”- if you crossed paths with Howard, chances are he invited you to church at least once. recruiting everyone who crossed his path to come visit St. Luke.

He was preceded in death by his son, Chevin Goldsborough; his sister, Shelia Butler-Blake; and his brother, Tyrone Blake.

Howard leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his life with his beloved wife, Anitra D. Blake; his children, Andre Stockman, LaMia Pierce, Breon Pierce, Felicia Lacey, Jabree Goldsborough, Ka’Leem Goldsborough, and Lamirah (“Me-Moms”) Blake. He also leaves to carry his legacy nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren including Mia Amor-Pierce and Israel Gale-Pierce, and their cousins, who will continue to carry his love and legacy forward.

He is also survived by his siblings, Rosalind Jones of Atlanta, Georgia; Donna Thornton, Annette, and Shawn Draughn of Atlanta, Georgia; and Cynthia Lawson of Chester, Pennsylvania; his cherished niece Tiffany Lawson of Chester, Pennsylvania, best friend, Darryl “Six” Hunter; his mentee, Nasir Ruddle; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

To know Howard was to know consistency, strength, and quiet love. He was the kind of man people called when they needed help and the kind of presence people leaned on without having to ask. He showed up, he stood firm, and he left an imprint that time cannot erase.

Though our hearts carry the weight of his absence, we are grateful for the gift of his life, the lessons he taught, and the legacy he leaves behind. Though he may be absent from the body, his love, his presence, and his spirit will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.”

— 2 Corinthians 5:8

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