Blake served District 22 for 10 years from 2003 to 2013. During his tenure the district encompassed Moore, Lee and Harnett counties. He did not seek re-election in 2012 and endorsed fellow Republican Sen. Jerry Tillman.

 

Blake also served in the Reagan administration.

 

In 2013 he was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Gov. Pat McCrory. It is the state's highest honor.

 

Upon learning of Sen. Blake's death, the governor praised Blake. “Harris Blake went the extra mile to let everyone in his district know that he worked for them, regardless of their party affiliation or who they voted for,” said Governor McCrory in a statement. “He was a consummate gentleman during his 10 years in the General Assembly and he is missed. My prayers are with his family during their time of great loss.”

 

Current Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) described Blake as a dear friend and a self-made man who freely gave to others through public service. "From serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War to representing the people of Moore and Harnett counties in the North Carolina Senate, he was the epitome of a public servant. He was an unfailing advocate for limited government, fiscal responsibility, and -- most importantly -- for his constituents.  Sen. Blake was a dear friend, and my colleagues and I will miss him greatly."

 

Funeral services are pending.