Lois Jean Blake

With a heart full of gratitude and love, we remember and celebrate the life of Lois Jean Blake, née Koles, who was born on April 2, 1960, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, and peacefully departed from us on June 6, 2026, at Wheeling Hospital, after a courageous battle with Stage 4 Lung Cancer. Lois's journey on this earth was marked by an extraordinary dedication to service, unwavering kindness, and a love for life that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Lois’s career was a testament to her remarkable spirit and commitment. For 40 years, she dedicated herself as a housekeeper in various hospitals, including East Ohio Regional Hospital, Continues Care at Wheeling Hospital, and Sunset Health Care. Her work was more than a job; it was a calling. She found joy and pride in helping the elderly and caring for those who needed it most. Her efforts were not just about cleanliness and upkeep but about creating comfort and dignity for others—showing her unique blend of compassion and selflessness every day.

A graduate of Buckeye West Class of 1979, Lois carried the lessons of her education into every part of her life. She was known for her loving and caring personality—truly, to know her was to love her. Her warmth extended beyond her professional life into her family and community. She had a special knack for making others happy, often putting the needs of others before her own, a rare and beautiful quality that defined her life’s work and her relationships.

Lois’s hobbies and interests were a reflection of her gentle and nurturing spirit. She loved canning, flowers, and tending to her garden—a beautiful sanctuary where she could nurture life and find peace. She delighted in the simple pleasures of her wonderful world, lovingly naming everything including her beloved cat, Kiki, who was a cherished companion,  and fond memories of playing in the creek and recently she was lead to the Lord, give us insight into her generous heart and lasting faith.

She was a devoted wife, having been blessed with 13 months of marriage to Wiley Allen Blake, who survives her along with one daughter, grandchildren Caleb, Sierra, and Brayden and her stepchildren whom she embraced with loving care: Jay Blake of Shadyside, Alexandra Rosier of Moundsville, Iziaah Blake and Wiley A Blake Jr. of Bellaire, and Keith Blake of Bethesda. Lois also cherished her role as a step-grandmother to Ethan and Travis Rosier, who were precious light in her life.

Her earthly family remains a testament to the deep bonds she nurtured: sister in law Tammy Koles of Adena, siblings Becky Gaughn of Martins Ferry, Joyce Caleca of Oklahoma, and Vickie Green and husband Eugene, Step brother Bo Stidd of Mt. Pleasant, sister Sharon Bailey of Adena, Cheryl Kowarik of Rayland, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews who carry forward her legacy.

Lois was preceded in death by her beloved parents, John and Edna (Dillon) Koles, and her brother Frank Koles, whose memories she held close to her heart.

In reflecting on Lois Jean Blake’s 66 years, we are profoundly grateful for the footprint she leaves behind—a life of service, love, and faith. She was a shining example of compassion put into action and a heartfelt reminder of the profound impact one life can make on many. Lois’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and grace, and though she has passed from this world, the love she shared will continue to blossom in the hearts of all who knew her.

We honor Lois’s memory with gratitude and hold fast to the joy and comfort she shared so freely. May her soul rest peacefully, embraced forever by the Lord to whom she so lovingly led others. Her legacy of kindness and love remains a guiding light to all who were blessed to know this remarkable woman.  Schuetz Funeral Home is assisting the family. A Crowd Funding Page is set up below to defray cost for the family. 

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