Leah Ann Blakely

Leah Ann Blakely, affectionately known as "Nana” to many, passed away on July 11, 2026, leaving behind an enduring legacy of warmth, character, and love for her family. Born on December 15, 1935,  Ann’s life spanned more than ninety years, touching countless lives along the way.

A proud member of the Valley High School class of 1952,  Ann carried with her fond memories and lasting friendships from her formative years. Armed with resilience and a can-do spirit, she entered the workforce and found her professional calling as a school bus driver for Jefferson County Public Schools. For over thirty years, Ms. Ann drove generations of children safely to and from school, becoming a beloved fixture of her community. Her toughness, good humor, and watchful eye ensured that every student felt cared for and protected under her watch.

Ann’s life outside her career was rich with simple pleasures and deep connections. She relished being outdoors, whether basking in the sunshine at the beach or lake or riding her bike through the neighborhood or cheering on her Louisville Cardinals. Her front porch was a gathering place, where friends, family, and neighbors would congregate, drawn by her vivacious storytelling and sage advice. As she shared tales from her life, her spirited personality shone—spunky, feisty, and, at times, mischievous. She never shied away from speaking her mind, a quality that earned her both admiration and affection from those who knew her best.

Of all her accomplishments, none brought her more pride than her family. She cherished her role as a Mom and Nana, delighting in the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren. Her legacy lives on in the wisdom, love, and laughter she imparted to each generation.

She was preceded in death her by parents, Glenn and Muriel Carraco; son, Steven Grant Blakely and her son-in-law, Billy Sadler.

Ann leaves behind to cherish her memories, her children, Mike (Wei Wei) Blakely, Susan Sadler and Troy (Debbi) Blakely; daughter-in-law, Berita Blakely; grandchildren, Candace (Mike), Amanda, Kenny, Shannon (Curt), Catrina (Matt), Kayla (Will), Stephanie (Brian), Mallory (Kenny), Cory (Arielle), Shawn (Shannon), Jennifer (Mark), Trent, Taylor (Brent), Hayley (Tyler) and Hannah (Austin); 31 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. 

Family, friends, and all touched by Ann’s remarkable presence are invited to honor her memory at a Memorial Gathering on July 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Louisville, located at 10304 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40272.

Leah Ann Blakely’s life was a testament to resilience and love of family. She will be remembered always with deep respect, fondness, and gratitude.