Rev. Herbert "Caesar Boy" Blakely of Rockford departed this earthly life, February 6, 2024. He was born April 21, 1949 in Rosston, Arkansas the son of Gernard and Carnel Blakely. Herbert lived in Rockford 55 years coming from Rosston.  He married the former Idella Ingram, July 27, 1973. Herbert was self employed as a truck driver 45 years before retiring, later to work parttime as a driver for Sunrise. He was a member of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, serving on the ministerial Team, where he formerly served as the Sunday School Superintendent.  Herbert graduated from Oak Grove High School and attended Rock Valley College.

Herbert leaves to cherish many loving memories, his wife; Idella; daughter, Virginia (Andre) Quattlebaum; three sons, Elbert Blakely, Phil Blakely and Cornel (Whitney) Blakely; 10 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; brother, Lawrence (Susie) Blakely; four sisters, Bobby Hamilton, Doris Broomfield, Carmelita Box and Vernita Shepard; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; and daughter, Calero Vondela Blakely.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February  15, 2024 at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church 2919 19th Street. Burial in Willwood Burial Park. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.