James Edward Blalock

ARLINGTON - James Edward Blalock passed away on January 26, 2022, at the age of 78 in his home in Arlington, Virginia. Raised in Durant, Oklahoma, Jim maintained life-long ties to the Durant community serving on the Board of Directors of the First TexomaNational Bank for nearly 25 years. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma and obtaining a master’s degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, Jim began his career in international affairs with the US Agency for International Development stationed inAnkara, Turkey. He later earned a Ph.D. in economics from CornellUniversity and spent the remainder of his professional life at the International Monetary Fund working on economic development in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. Jim’s love of all things international extended to vacationing with his family. Jim traveled with his family to Tanzania, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Panama, Costa Rica, Italy, Japan, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, and many other countries. Jim also embraced the outdoors with his family through hiking, rafting, and boating vacations in state and national parks, theHimalaya, Galapagos Islands, Patagonia, Tour deMont Blanc, Inca Trail, and other wilderness areas abroad and close to home. Jimenjoyed running on weekends with his friends and completed the Marine Corps Marathon five times. Regarded by family and friends as a renaissance man, Jimalso enjoyed dancing with his wife of 58 years, visitingmuseums, collecting art, and other pursuits. Jim also contributed to many environmental, social, and other causes, including supporting the renovation of Warren Hall at Cornell University where a conference room is dedicated in his honor. Jim is survived by his wife, two sons, and four grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Jim’s philanthropic spirit and passion for the outdoors, please consider a donation in Jim’s remembrance to theWorldWildlife Fund, the Sierra Club, or the outdoor charity concern of your choice.