Commander James Blake Smelley, USN (Ret.), passed away peacefully on August 15th, 2024 (his mother’s birthday) in Wenatchee, WA. He was surrounded by family, friends, and USNA classmates. He was 55 years old.
Blake was born on May 5th, 1969. He is survived by his son, Nathan James Smelley of Anacortes, WA. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jennie Ardoin Smelley and James A. Smelley.
Blake graduated from Central Private High School in 1987, where he played football. He participated in junior Olympics in weightlifting and was a proud Eagle Scout.
Blake graduated from USNA in May of 1992. He proudly served his country for 21 years with tours in Afghanistan and Iraq.
A memorial service will be held on December 6th, 2024 at Greenoaks Celebration of Life Reception Center, 9607 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, at 11 am. Inurnment will follow in Greenoaks Memorial Park. Blake will be laid to rest next to his parents.
