Joseph E. Blevins, 93, of Davidsonville

»Information from the Hardesty Funeral Home website.

Joseph E. Blevins, 93, a 45-year resident of Davidsonville, died Sept. 14, 2015, at Anne Arundel Medical Center, after being in rehab at Genesis Eldercare Spa Creek Center.

A self-taught businessman, he was a veteran of World War II, serving as a radio operator in the Army Air Force. He was stationed in England and flew 36 missions as a bomber dispatcher. As a member of the 379th Bombardment Group, he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. He also received the French Legion of Honor, being named a “Chevalier” for his contribution to the liberation of France during the war.

Blevins was an avid member of the Shriners and Shriners Hospital for Children. He belonged to the Scottish Rite of Free Masonry and received his 33rd and last degree. He was also a member of the Boumi Yacht Club and the International Association of Shrine Yacht Clubs. He enjoyed gardening, landscaping and time with his family.

Preceded in death by his wife Elva “Peggy” Blevins, he is survived by his niece, Judith Nave; great-nephews Bryan Nave and Christopher Nave and their families; and other nephews and great-nephews and nieces in Pennsylvania. His devoted caregiver of seven years, Theresa (Teasa) McClure was by his side the day of his death. His friend of many years, Joe Jonas, stood by his side like a mail man, thru rain, snow, sleet and hail.

A celebration of Blevins’s life will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 23 from 2-4 p.m. at Hardesty Funeral Home, 12 Ridgely Ave. in Annapolis. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.