Lamar Blanton

1931 - 2026

Lamar Berry Blanton passed away in Richmond, Virginia, on January 6, 2026. Born in Morganton, NC, she was the daughter of Russell Lamar Berry and Evelyn Kibler Berry. She was predeceased by her husband of 23 years, Charles A Blanton, II, and her former husband, James A. Harper, Jr. Lamar is survived by her brother, Frank Kibler Berry (Connie) of Morganton, and by her sister-in-law, Anne Pinnell Harper of Richmond. In addition, she is survived by her children: Sabra Harper Willhite (John), James A. Harper, III (Catherine), Russell Berry Harper (Susan), John Fitzpatrick Harper (Lisa), and Elizabeth Harper Lucchesi (David). She is survived by her nephews Anson Berry and Landon Harper, and her nieces Catherine Berry Musick, Kathryn Harper, and Frances Harper. Lamar is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Carnes Willhite (Sara), Caroline Willhite (fiancé Jonathan), Russell Harper, Jesse Harper, Cabell Harper Williams (Riley), Gayla Harper Whittaker (Steven), Christopher Harper (Shivonne), Kemp Harper, Evelyn Harper, Jim Lucchesi, Harper Lucchesi, and nine great-grandchildren.

An attendee of Salem College before moving to Richmond, Lamar's involvement in her community reflected her belief in giving back and supporting the organizations that mattered to her. Memberships included the Tuckahoe Women's Club, Roslyn Hills Garden Club, Richmond Regional Tourism Board, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Council. In addition, she worked for the Virginia General Assembly for 20 years as a receptionist and later served her community as a Henrico County election poll worker.

She gave her time generously and remained engaged well into later years, forming lasting friendships through her service and civic involvement with The Virginia Home, Meals on Wheels, and the Patrons Board at The Collegiate School.

Lamar was a devoted mother and grandmother who took great pride in her family. She was a steady presence in the lives of her children and grandchildren, offering encouragement, wisdom, and unconditional love. Family gatherings were especially meaningful to her, and she cherished time spent celebrating milestones, sharing meals, and creating lasting memories with those she loved. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and forever remembered by those whose lives she touched.

Known for her gracious spirit, strong sense of responsibility, and willingness to help others, Lamar had a gift for making people feel welcomed and valued, whether through a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or quiet acts of service. Her generosity of heart was evident in both her personal relationships and her lifelong commitment to volunteering.

The family would like to thank the amazing staff at Westminster Canterbury of Richmond for their loving care and devoted service to Lamar for more than twenty years. Their professionalism, compassion, and genuine kindness meant more to the family than words can express.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 19th, at Westminster Canterbury Richmond at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Westminster Canterbury of Richmond Foundation WEAVE employee fund.