Donald Blankin

Donald Lee Blankin, affectionately known as "Donnie", 73, of 208 Sunset Drive, Blacksburg went home to be with his late wife of 49 years, Darlene Blankin, on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at White Oak Manor in Spartanburg, SC.

Born in Gaffney, he was the son of the late Inez Allen Blankin and James Patrick Blankin. After graduating Blacksburg High School, he attended Limestone College before being drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in Vietnam.

While on tour in Vietnam, he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Upon leaving Vietnam, he graduated Officer Cadet School and enlisted in the S.C National Guard, where he served until 1982, when he retired as Captain. While in service, he had the honor of serving as guard for the funeral of the late Bobby Kennedy.

He was retired from The Timken Co., serving as Supervisor of many different departments. He was a member of Nazareth Baptist Church, an avid hunter, fisherman, and firearm enthusiast. He was inducted into the Cherokee County Hall of Bravery in 1988.

Surviving Mr. Blankin are two daughters; Casey Israel (Kenny) of Blacksburg and Courtney Blankin (Jason Sharpe) of Gaffney; a sister, Beverly Allison (Dickie) of Gaffney; a brother and sister-in-law, Fred Parker (Vickie) of Inman, Steve Parker of Spartanburg; three grandchildren, Scoot Maynor (Katie) of Boiling Springs, Elizabeth and Kaitlin Parks of Blacksburg; two great grandchildren, Aubrie Maynor and Natalie Parks; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Blankin was preceded in death by his wife, and a niece, Inge Parker.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 1st, 2021, from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Gordon Mortuary. A graveside service will be held on Monday, August 2nd, 2021, at 11 a.m. in the Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Jeff Connell officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cherokee County Veteran Organization, PO Box 1522, Gaffney, SC 29342, In Memory of 2nd Lt. Donald Blankin.

The family will be at the home of Casey Blankin-Israel, 112 Sunset Dr, Blacksburg, SC 29702.

Book of memories available at www.gordonmortuary.com. The Blacksburg location of Gordon Mortuary is serving the family.