James F. Blake

James Fred Blake (April 14, 1912 – March 21, 2002) was the bus driver whom Rosa Parks defied in 1955, prompting the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Early life

Blake was drafted into the Army in December 23, 1943. He was enlisted and sworn in at Ft. McClellan, Alabama. His enlistment record states he was married and had attended 1 year of high school. Blake also had previous experience in chauffeuring, truck, and tractor driving. He served for five years in active duty during the European theatre during World War II.

He worked as a bus driver for Montgomery City Bus Lines until 1974. After his retirement he became a member of The Morningview Baptist church. The children's pastor, Kem Holley, commented on his passing with, "Mr. Blake was a kind and gracious man, always had a smile on his face and always loved everybody. She also remarked that, "I know that a lot of people make a big deal out of [Parks' arrest], but Mr. Blake grew with the times, and he loved everybody.""

Rosa Parks and Claudette Colvin