Melva D. Bean Blanton

Melva D. Baskett Bean Blanton, 87, of Vine Grove, formerly of Tompkinsville, passed away Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, at her residence.

Mrs. Blanton was an avid reader and her love for literature was only matched by her skill in crocheting. Melva's flowerbed's were a testament to her patience and nurturing spirit, with roses, irises and hydrangeas blooming under her attentive care. The vibrant colors and sweet fragrances of her garden were a reflection of the beauty she cultivated in her relationships with family, friends and her grandchildren, who brought her so much joy and laughter.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Eugene Blanton; her parents, Herbert and Gladys Baskett; three siblings, Wallace Baskett, Wilma Grinestaff and Richard Baskett; and a stepson, Ralph E. "Gino" Blanton Jr.

Mrs. Blanton is survived by a daughter, Debbie Meredith (Michael); two stepdaughters, Yvonda Rash and Sonya Blanton, six grandchildren, Mark Meredith (Katie), Andy Meredith (Stacy), Jacob Meredith, Tasha McDonald (Patrick), Tiffany Moore (Jesse) and Tabitha Smothers (Scotty); 14 great-grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends.

Visitation is from 5 to 8 p.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 29, at Chism Family Funeral Home in Vine Grove and continues from noon to 2 p.m. CDT Tuesday, Sept. 30, at Bartley & Sons Funeral Home, 204 Columbia Avenue in Tompkinsville. Burial follows in Jane Yokley Cemetery in Tompkinsville.