Johnny Blankenship

Johnny J. Blankenship, 83, passed away on February 16, 2024, at a local hospital. He was the oldest son born to the late John and Ollie Thomas Miolen Blankenship. Johnny was born on April 27, 1940, in Tennga, GA and moved to Blue Springs Valley in 1943 on land formerly owned by an Indian forced to move on The Trail of Tears. Johnny attended the old one room schoolhouse until 1948 when the new school was built. A church obtained the old school and Johnny's family attended until the church moved. The new school was destroyed by a tornado and never was rebuilt. This was a great loss to the Blue Springs and Lead Mine Valley communities. At the age of 15, Johnny went to work for Clyde Calfee Well Drilling. He later went on to work at Hardwick Stove, then started his own business as a brick mason, plumber, and licensed contractor. He was known for his honesty and quality workmanship.

In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by one brother Ronald Blankenship.

He married Patricia A. Prueitt on May 6, 1961. They were married for almost 62 years and have three children, Sherah Lisa Benefield (Brian), Steve Blankenship (Bridget) and J. Barak Blankenship and one grandson Spencer S. Blankenship (Alicia). He is also survived by one brother Daniel Blankenship. Children were drawn to Johnny because he gave them love and attention, but nothing compared to the bond between Johnny and Spencer - it was love at first sight.

Sherah Lisa was a daddy's girl. The boys treasured time they shared hunting and working on construction jobs with their dad. That ended when Johnny lost most of his vision. The sons kept the business running Johnny had trained them well.

Johnny's ancestors came to the USA in the 1600s and later to Polk County. The Miolen family lived in the old Dutch settlement. Johnny will be buried at the cemetery at Ball Play Baptist Church where an ancestor had donated land where the Blankenship families are buried.

Johnny suffered many health problems, but God's grace was always sufficient. What a might God! Johnny is now in Heaven without any health problems. "Don't weep for me I will not be weeping. Rejoice with me for I will be rejoicing in the presence of my Lord. See you later. Hold onto your faith."

Johnny's funeral will be held on Wednesday February 20, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Companion Funeral Home located at 2415 Georgetown Road with pastor Jeanie Cissom officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 12:00 PM until the 2:00 PM service time. Burial will follow in the Ball Play Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank everyone for the excellent care at Tennova, pastor Jeanie Cissom, Companion Funeral Home, hospice and the many family and friends.

You are encouraged to share memory of Johnny and/or your personal condolences with his family by visiting his memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland is honored to assist his family with these arrangements.