James William Blankenship

James William Blankenship, age 83, of Narrows, Virginia, passed away in his home on August 22, 2026 after a valiant and courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 14, 1943, in Giles County, Virginia, he lived a life marked by devotion to his family, service to his country, steady work, and a deep Christian faith. He was the beloved husband of Ardiss Swanson Blankenship for 60 years, and their marriage was a lasting example of love, loyalty, and partnership. Together they built a family that was the center of his world. He is survived by his son, Charlie Blankenship and Debra Jo Conley, and his daughters, Hope Blankenship and Jennifer Blankenship Smith and Robert. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Cory Fisher, Danielle Lee, Cameron Blankenship, Cassidy Goumenis, James Reed Underwood, and Eli Smith, as well as his great-grandchildren, Jack Lee and Myla Pollard, with one more great-grandchild on the way. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Pruitt and Terry. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Clifton Blankenship and Pauline Vaughn Blankenship; his siblings, Betty Sue Clemons, Carol Blankenship Taylor, and Danny Blankenship; and his faithful furbaby, Dusty. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life, and he carried the values of family and faith that they instilled in him. James proudly served his country as a United States Army Military Police Sergeant. His military service was a source of honor throughout his life, and he was recognized with the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device 60, the Vietnam Service Medal with bronze star, two overseas bars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Sharpshooter Badge. His service reflected courage, discipline, and dedication, and he remained proud of his time in the Army. After his military service, he worked at Radford Arsenal in construction, where he continued to apply his strong work ethic and dependable nature. James was a Christian and a faithful member of the family of faith at Bethel Chapel in Clendennin. His beliefs guided the way he lived, and his quiet strength and kindness were evident to those who knew him. He was also a member of VFW Chapter 628, where he maintained the bonds of fellowship and service with fellow veterans. He found joy in simple and meaningful things. He enjoyed gardening and the challenge and the science of grafting trees, tending to the land with patience and care. He also enjoyed western movies, hunting, and fishing, pastimes that brought him peace and reflected his appreciation for the outdoors and the traditions he held dear. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, his warm spirit, and his willingness to give and help those who were in need. The family will receive friends at a time of visitation on Monday, August 31, 2026 from 11:30 AM until 12:30 PM in Kendall Funeral Home. A funeral service will be conducted Monday, August 31, 2026 at 12:30 PM in Kendall Funeral Home with Pastors Tony Robertson and Earl Riggs officiating. Funeral services will conclude in the Southwestern Virginia Veterans Cemetery where he will be laid to rest and funeral honors presented by the United States Army and the Southwestern Virginia Veterans Cemetery Honor Guard. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Blankenship family.