Barbara Jean "Blanton" Oates

Barbara Jean Blanton Oates, 78, entered her heavenly home on January 21, 2026. She was born in Cleveland County to her parents Carl Edward and Sarah Lee Pearson Blanton. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Kenneth Ray Blanton, a daughter Danyel Oates Hill, and two grandsons Dalton Pierce Hill and Cody Lee Moore.

Survivors left to cherish her memories include her loving husband Robert Keith Oates, Sr., a daughter Kenna Leigh Moore, and son Robert Keith Oates, Jr. Barbara married her high school sweetheart Keith Oates on May 1, 1965 and shared 60 meaningful years together. She served along side him as a devoted Army wife and supporting a Vietnam war veteran awaiting his return to their hometown in Gaston County. Barbara and Keith enjoyed entertaining family and friends,, playing cards, riding on his motorcycle and going on vacation.

Barbara's love for her three children was immeasurable. She gave her heart and time to them by volunteering as a girl scout leader and dance mom to Danyel and Kenna, and as a soccer mom and wrestling mom to Robert. She spent a lot of her time traveling to dance competitions and weekend trips with her Girl Scout troops. Each trip these young ladies would be yelling "I'm riding with Mrs. Oates", because of her endurance and vibrant ways. She did not mind turning the radio volume to full blast, bobbing her head all the way there and back with her mini van packed full of teenagers.

Barbara's love for her three grandsons was also immeasurable as spending the weekend at MawMaw and PawPaws house became her most enjoyable thing to do and supporting Brett, Cody and Logan with their sporting events.

Barbara's service will be held on Saturday January 31st in the Serenity Mausoleum at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery at 12 Noon, where the family will greet friends and share memories of Barbara.