Vera Blalock-Johnson

Service Details

Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory on Thursday, February 26, 2026, for a visitation from 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm. 

A service celebrating her life and Homegoing will follow at 4:30 pm. 

   Vera Mae Blalock-Johnson, age 73, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, in the presence of her loving family. Born on February 28, 1952, to Mary Butler and Rufus Burks, Vera lived a life full of love, strength, and devotion to those she held dear.

Those who knew Vera knew she was one of a kind. She had a sense of humor that could light up any room and a laugh that was absolutely contagious. But make no mistake — Vera was not one to be trifled with. She was fiercely protective of her family, and anyone who dared to step out of line knew better than to test her patience. As the saying went, you’d better run, because Vera wouldn’t hesitate to let you know exactly where you stood. That fire and that strength were gifts she passed down to every one of her children, and it lives on in each of them to this day.

She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Mary Butler and Rufus Burks; her grandparents; her first husband, James Blalock Sr., whom she shared a life with and together brought five children into this world; her second husband, Milton Johnson; her daughter, Kimberly Young; her son, Michael Blalock; and her cherished siblings — Eugene, Lenora, Carolyn, Marvin, and Rufus. Her Sister-friend Lorna. Each of them went before her, and we take comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those she loved and lost along the way.

Vera leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her surviving children: James P. Blalock (Ambreia), Jamaine Blalock (Brittany), and Crystal Herbrechtsmeier. Her grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy, include Charrie (Joshua), Shawnice Young, Joseph Jr., James P.Jr., Michael Jr., Robert, Brooklyn, Brielle, James , Charmaine, Elias, Michael, Chaliyah, and Jaran. Vera was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Victoria, Princeston, Maverick, Kimberly, Justin Jr., Delilah, Dorian, and Sienna — each one a testament to the extraordinary family she built over her lifetime.

She will also be deeply missed by her devoted sister, Diane, who loved her dearly and whose heart carries an immeasurable loss knowing she has to walk through this world without her sister by her side. Equally heartbroken is her baby sister, Barbara, who spent countless cherished moments by Vera’s side throughout her life. Barbara’s weekly visits were something they both looked forward to — doing hair, painting nails, and dressing up together like the true Divas they were. Those glamorous, joy-filled moments between two sisters were a treasure, and Barbara will carry those memories in her heart forever. She will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Her children, who knew her best, have shared words that speak beautifully to the woman she was. Her son James reflected, “The best feeling is knowing her presence and sometimes the peace. ” Her son Jamaine remembered her with admiration, saying, “My mother was tiny but had strength and was a fighter.”

And her daughter, Crystal painted a picture of the mother they all adored, sharing, “My mom was fun and was always laughing and smiling. Her mom was a jokester and brought life back to anybody. She was the best life teacher and storyteller. She loved all of her family — her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids.”And so, in the spirit of Vera herself, we celebrate her life the way she would have wanted — with love, with laughter, and perhaps additional memories of spending time partying with her cousin Anthony or Best Friend Marlene singing, “ Just Got Paid, It’s Friday Night!”

Vera Mae Blalock will be forever remembered as the heart, the protector, and storyteller of her family. Her humor, her strength, and her love will echo through every generation she leaves behind. May she rest in eternal peace — and may heaven be ready for her arrival.

What would Vera say about all of this?  “Nananana huh, at the same damn time huh, Am I Right or am I Wrong”

Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory on Thursday, February 26, 2026, for a visitation from 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm.  A service celebrating her life and Homegoing will follow at 4:30 pm.