Edgar Dunn Blanton

He was born Dec. 2, 1919, in Pelham to Mary Kemp and Joseph James Blanton.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Dorothy Manning Blanton, two brothers and six sisters.

He is survived by his daughters, Beth Spain of Brunswick and Jody McCollum (Hans) of Brunswick; grandchildren, Christopher Spain of Brunswick, Celia and Toby Eisentrager of Dusseldorf, Germany, and Lydia McCollum of Dusseldorf, Germany; great-grandson, Blanton Dean Spain of Savannah; and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Blanton served in the U.S. Army after attending Georgia Military College. He was commissioned as an anti-aircraft gun unit commander in the Marianas Islands during World War II. While on active duty, he received numerous awards, including a bronze star. He retired as a major from the Georgia National Guard after serving for 27 years. Mr. Blanton’s most recent award is being presented the title of “Kentucky Colonel” by the governor of the state of Kentucky.

Many people in the community remember Mr. Blanton as the store manager of H&H Service Store, where he served his loyal customers for many years. Mr. Blanton was an active member of McKendree Methodist Church until transferring his membership to First United Methodist Church. He became a faithful member of the Together Society Sunday School class and the Contemporary Worship Service.

Known lovingly as “Big Daddy,” Ed was a man of quick wit, sweet spirit and courage. In his many years, he enjoyed his family, friends, bird watching, poetry, and, most importantly, Georgia history. He started each day with a peanut butter sandwich and a smile. He was a lover of life and appreciated the gift of each day.

The family of Big Daddy would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Brightstar Healthcare, Charlton Visiting Nurses, Physical Therapy Plus, Dr. David Heine and staff, and the Hospice of the Golden Isles for helping them provide quality care and being part of Big Daddy’s health care team.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012, at Palmetto Cemetery with the Rev. Jim McIlrath officiating.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012, at First United Methodist Church in Brunswick.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to First United Methodist Church of Brunswick (Abiding Memorial Fund) or to the Hospice of the Golden Isles.

Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.