Donald Junior Blankenship
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Donald J. Blankenship of Salem, Va., who left us on Monday, January 6, 2025, at the age of 70.
Donald was born on November 5, 1954, to Crockett and Dorothy Blankenship.
Donald was an outgoing person known for his humor and joking ways. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. A proud alumnus of the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind, Donald was also inducted into their Hall of Fame for his accomplishments as an athlete. Donald found great pride in the deaf community and was active in the Roanoke Valley Club of the Deaf, where he enjoyed spending time with friends—those he considered family—at events such as horseshoe tournaments, fishing tournaments, and shooting matches. For Donald, it was the moments spent with loved ones that truly defined his life. He really was the kind of man who would "give you the shirt off his back.”
While Donald is no longer with us, the memories he’s left behind will stay in our hearts forever.
Along with his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his sister, Phyllis Reese; brother, Melvin Blankenship; as well as a special brother-in-law, James Reid.
He is survived by his faithful wife of 47 years, Nancy Blankenship; his children, all of Salem, Va., Tracey (Travis), Kasey (Jason), Josh (Brandy), and Donald (Baylee); 11 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; sisters, Patricia (Joe) Worrell and Dorothy Dickerson; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends; and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A memorial service to honor Donald will take place at Fort Lewis Baptist Church, situated at 4215 W. Main St., Salem, Va. 24153, on Sunday, January 12, 2025. The family will be gathering from 2:00 to 2:30 p.m., followed by an opportunity for friends to pay their respects at 2:30 p.m. The service will commence thereafter at 3:00 p.m., officiated by George Larue. The family welcomes everyone to fellowship after the service at the same location.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.
