James Keith Blanton

Nichols, South Carolina

Mr. James Keith Blanton, age 85, passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at The Legacy of North Myrtle Beach. Born on June 17, 1940, in Nichols, SC, he was the son of the late James Paul Blanton and the late Elizabeth Reynolds Blanton. Mr. Blanton was a devoted man of faith who dearly loved his church. Over the years, he served in many capacities including Chairman of Deacons, Trustee, Moderator, choir member, and was actively involved in caring for the church cemetery. In his personal life, he earned his bachelor's degree from Clemson University, pilot's license, and proudly volunteered as a fireman and EMT. Mr. Blanton served as Vice President at Federal Land Bank where he later retired and went on to serve as the Vice President of Blantons Building Supplies. Mr. Blanton shared his knowledge as an agriculture teacher at Conway High School and was a member of the Horry County Higher Education Commission.

Survivors include his son, James Darren Blanton and his wife, Connie; daughter, Tonya Elizabeth Rainbolt; grandchildren, Sophia Blanton, Kelee Rainbolt, and Lily Cilenti; brother, Frankie C. Blanton; and many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Blanton was predeceased by his wife, Tallulah Elizabeth "Betty" Blanton; brother, Lloyd H. Blanton; and sisters-in-law, Nancy Blanton, and Melba Blanton.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Mount Olive Baptist Church with Pastor Hunter Johnson and Phyllis Elvington officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at Mount Olive Baptist Church. The family requests that memorials be made to Mount Olive Baptist Church Cemetery; 1950 Mount Olive Church Rd, Nichols, SC 29581. Please sign Mr. Blanton's online guestbook at hardwickfuneralhome.com or call Hardwick Funeral Home at 843-756-7001 for further information.