Donald Keith Blades

Donald Keith Blades, a man known for his faith and love for all things mechanical, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, in Lexington, KY, at the age of 82. Born on December 15, 1942, in Covington, KY, Donald's journey through life was marked by his dedication to family, work, and his unwavering belief in the Christian faith.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jennie Hamilton Blades, and a legacy embodied by his children, Kristina Jean (Mark) Martin, Donna Kaye Blades, and Danny Keith (Amy) Blades, as well as his cherished stepchildren, David (Regina) Caskey, Thomas (Leah) Caskey, and Rebecca (Wesley) Northcutt. Donald was a grandfather to seventeen grandchildren, Sheena, Chasta, Laurna, Ashleigh, Savanna, Johnathan, Justin, Damien, Dawson, Ashlyn, Carlee, Baleigh, Abby, Ava, Titus, Jenna, and Kara, who added joy and vibrancy to his life, and they will carry forward his spirited love and life lessons. His memory will also be cherished by several great-grandchildren, his brother Danny (Faye) Blades, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who held a special place in his heart.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Woodrow Wilson Blades and Mary Frances Pugh Blades; his brother, William Blades; and his two sisters, Sue Caudill and Cathy Richie.
Donald's industrious spirit led him to a fulfilling career as a supervisor over truck maintenance with Harrod Brothers Concrete Company, where he applied his exceptional skills and work ethic until his retirement. His hands were rarely still, for he found joy and purpose in repairing and maintaining anything with an engine-cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles, tractors, and beyond.
He was a proud member of the Paris Christian Chapel, where he nurtured his soul and found fellowship among his faith community.
As a man of many strengths and talents, Donald's capacity to fix, build, and understand the mechanics of the world around him was unparalleled. His passion for engines was not just a hobby but a defining part of who he was-a legacy he leaves behind in the hearts and memories of those who loved him.
The family of Donald Keith Blades honors his memory and will be forever grateful for the time they shared, the wisdom he imparted, and the love he gave. As they bid farewell to this remarkable man, they take comfort in knowing his spirit will live on through the memories they hold and the lives he touched. Donald's journey on earth has ended, but the echo of his life's impact will reverberate for generations to come.
Memorial service will be conducted at 3:00 PM Thursday October 2, 2025, by Bro. Don Jolly at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY. Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until the hour of service at the funeral home.
The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home, 1120 Main Street, Paris, KY. The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.com and a 24-hour funeral information line can be reached by calling 859-987-4387.