Robert Frank Blakeney, 83 of Charlotte, passed away peacefully to go to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at Mint Hill Senior Living. He was born October 29, 1936 to the late Jake and Lizzie Blakeney in Pageland, South Carolina.  Robert's mother Lizzie preceded him in death when Robert was a young child.  Young Robert was reared by aunts and uncles from his mother's family while his father Jake went up north to work and provide for young Robert and himself. He was also preceded in death by his brother, James Blakeney.

Robert was educated in Lancaster County Public Schools and completed the 8th grade.  Robert was a very hard worker and exhibited mastery in organizing and fixing things. Because of his God given abilities, he was able to work in the furniture industry for 40 years.  In this industry, he worked for Sterchi Brothers Furniture, Heilig-Myers Furniture, and lastly, Kimbrell's Furniture, until he retired.  Robert was the warehouse manager at each company.  Upper management was quickly impressed with his natural ability to manage people, routes, move furniture and save the company money.

Robert accepted Christ at an early age and worked tirelessly at Middle Street AME Zion Church as a faithful steward and usher until he joined in membership with his wife at Progressive Baptist Church.  Robert remained faithful until his health declined.

Robert was brother to many of his first cousins including Theron, Aaron, Rudy, James Edward, Lottie and Sarah, and "Uncle Robert" to many others.  In the old neighborhood, he was "Mr. Robert".  It wasn't young kids being formal, it was merely a sign of respect.  Mr. Robert was strong, a man's man and a great teacher to many.  He also had a few special relationships with his mother-in-law, Lizzie Hicklen, his church family, his social club and his family.

He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

He leaves his memories to be cherished by his devoted and loving wife, Lula Hicklen Blakeney; his daughter, Angela Hicklen Austin and two sons, Shawn Kelly Hicklen (Anissa) and Darryl Peron Hicklen (Joyce); four grandchildren, Miles Hicklen, Marisa Hicklen, Derrion Hicklen and William "Nicholas" Hicklen; sisters-in-law, Betty Starks, Dorothy Allen, Jeanette McCormick; brother-in-law, Walter McCormick, Jr.; and a host of other relatives and friends.