We were traveling in Scotland last week when we got the sad news of the passing of East Tennessee businessman Sid Blalock. Sid and Jo, his wife of 58 years, have been frequent attendees at events covered on the Blue Streak since it was started in 2009. I thought you might want to see some of the photos in which he appeared.
Jo and Sid Blalock attending Zoofari, a fundraiser at Zoo Knoxville in the summer of 2014.
Sid always appeared to be having a good time and, obviously, he shared the philosophy of many other Blue Streak regulars: do good and have fun! I hope you enjoy this brief walk down memory lane. Our condolences to Jo and the rest of Sid’s family.
Here is a link to a story about his passing as it ran in the News Sentinel last week: https://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/2019/07/12/sidney-blalock-generous-sevierville-philanthropist-dies-blalock-and-sons/1702146001/
Here is a link to the obituary: https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/knoxnews/obituary.aspx?n=sidney-alvin-blalock&pid=193363332&fhid=6411
Photo taken at the community welcome reception for UT Head Basketball Coach Rick Barnes at the Knoxville Convention Center in 2015. From left, Coach Barnes, Sid Blalock, Pam Hart, Candy Barnes, Dave Hart and Jo Blalock. (Photo by Gary Heatherly)
Sid and Jo at Cherokee Country Club at a 2018 event celebrating the recognition of Natalie Haslam as “East Tennessean of the Year” in a benefit for the East Tennessee Historical Society.
Sid Blalock last year with Tennessee Theatre Executive Director Becky Hancock at “Stars on Stage,” a fundraiser for the historic venue.
Sid and Jo last year at “Blues on the River,” a fundraiser held at the home of Bob Lederer for the benefit of the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra.
Sid with Steve Bailey in 2011 during a fundraiser at Bailey’s house to benefit the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum. Guest of honor at the event was legendary University of Georgia football coach and athletic director Vince Dooley.
Sid and Jo last year at the UT Gardens Gala.
Sid and Jo with UT Women’s Athletics Director Emeritus Joan Cronan at 2014’s Salute to Excellence dinner benefiting UT Athletics. It was held at the Knoxville Convention Center and featured an appearance by rocker Jason D. Williams.
Sid and Jo at a 2011 garden party at Betsey Bush’s beautiful home honoring the largest contributors to the Knoxville Botanical Garden.
Sid and Jo with Harvey White at Cherokee Country Club for the 2015 Knoxville Symphony Ball.
Here are Sid and Jo at the 2016 Symphony Ball at Cherokee Country Club.
At last year’s Symphony Ball, from left, Joanne and Jay Mounger, Sid Blalock, Nancy Bosson, Jo Blalock, Brian Bosson, Theresa Stone and Harvey and Karen White.
Fun at Zoofari in 2015.
Sid and Jo with Carol Parnell at a Grammy Awards party in 2013. It was held at Janet Bower’s home in honor of then-KSO Music Director Lucas Richman, himself a Grammy winner.
Sid and Jo in spring 2016 at an Elegant Dining event held at the West Knox County home of Randy and Jenny Boyd benefiting the Knoxville Symphony League.
This is a funny one. Just before Valentine’s Day in 2013, our client, Gift & Gourmet, had a special event for men to select presents for their sweeties. We caught Sid there, along with Terrell Burkhart. Smart guys!
Pardon the blue light. This was at Southern Summer’s Night in 2013. Held at The Middlebrook mansion, it was a benefit for Covenant Health’s Hope Center. Jamar Rogers, a finalist on “The Voice,” was the entertainment.
At a fun party in the summer of 2017 at the Tellico Village Yacht Club to benefit the Knoxville Symphony.
At Sherri Lee’s home in September 2017 for “Evening Under the Stars,” benefiting the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra.
Great, great memories.
So very sorry to hear this news. It was always a pleasure to see Jo and Sid at the Tennessee Theatre Spotlight Club Broadway productions. Our thoughts and condolences are with Jo and the family at this difficult time.
Eric: I know exactly what you mean. He was always at the important community events lending support and having fun at the same time. Sid will be missed. Keeping Jo in our thoughts.
Cynthia. Thanks so much for this fitting tribute to the finest man I have ever known. My wife and I are so fortunate to have been able to call Sid and Jo our dear friends. He will be greatly missed….but ALWAYS remembered.
Tom: Totally agree.
About the Author
What You’re Saying
What’s Hot
My Favorite Blogs
Archives