Ray Marcus Blanton, age 84, of Sylva, NC passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 10 th . He was
born on January 9th, 1939 to the late Vester Guy and Edith Hensley Blanton. He was preceded in death by
his siblings, Vester Guy Blanton, Jr. and Wanda Blanton Phillips.
Ray was employed at the Mead Corporation for over a decade and was a building contractor for over
40+ years. He loved the beauty of the NC mountains, enjoyed meeting with his “Round Top” fellowship
group and the company of his McDonald’s breakfast club. Most of all he loved and cherished his family.
His survivors include his wife of 63 years, Doralee Smith Blanton, children: Ray M. Blanton, Jr. (Carla) of
Springfield, TN, Michael L. Blanton of Taylorsville, NC, and Robin Bellah (Robert) of Charleston, SC.
Grandchildren: Michael, Marcus, Kelly, Jamie, Trey and Cody, step grandchild: Kimberly. Great
grandchildren: Addison, Brantley, Corbin, Lukasey and Olive. Brother: Kenneth Blanton (Elaine) of
Weaverville, NC.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 in the Chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services with the Reverend Eddie Stillwell officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Burial will follow at New Hope Baptist Church cemetery.
The family will also be receiving friends and family following the graveside service at New Hope Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the New Hope Baptist Church cemetery fund or the Jackson County
Sheriff’s Assocation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
165 Skyland Dr, Sylva, NC 28779

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