Gary Earl Blanton

Gary was born on April 29, 1951, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Henry ("Pa") and Margaret ("Ma") Blanton. After graduating high school, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country for 13 years. His service took him around the world, including assignments in Korea and Germany.

During his military years, Gary married Cathy and welcomed his son, Gary Blanton Jr. Later, while stationed in Kentucky, he met the love of his life, Darlene. Together they built a life founded on love, family, and perseverance. Gary embraced Darlene's daughters, LaDonna and Deanna, as his own and loved them as if they had always been his. In 1983, they returned to Texas to make their home, where he forced them to do yard work.

After his military service, Gary spent many years driving a cement mixer, working long hours and doing whatever it took to provide for his family. He believed in hard work, keeping his word, and taking care of the people he loved.

Above all else, Gary loved his family. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy came from watching his family grow and tormenting them with bad jokes and harmless pranks.

Though he wasn't always one to wear his heart on his sleeve, those closest to him knew how deeply sentimental he was. He loved fiercely, cared deeply for his family, and showed it in countless ways throughout his life. Family members often joked that Paw Paw wasn't happy unless he was a little grumpy, but behind that gruff exterior was a man with a big heart who treasured the people he loved.

Gary was a lifelong baseball fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer for the Texas Rangers. He also loved gathering around a table for dominoes, poker, Wahoo, and Yahtzee. Family members often joked that Gary had luck unlike anyone they'd ever seen. He could roll three Yahtzees in a single game, and more than once won a poker hand after confidently betting big without ever looking at his cards. Whether it was skill, luck, or a little bit of both, Gary always seemed to find a way to come out ahead.

He was also a devoted dog lover throughout his life. Among his many four-legged companions, Casper, Bear, and Buddy held especially special places in his heart.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Margaret Blanton; his beloved wife, Darlene Blanton; his son, Gary Blanton Jr.; and his brothers, Don, Bob, and Wesley Blanton.

He is survived by his daughters, LaDonna Whittaker-Braham and her husband, Douglas Braham, and Deanna Burton and her husband, Jonathan Burton; his grandchildren, Gregory Littrell and his fiancé Camrin, Dawson Braham, Austin Braham and his wife Jennifer, Ashley Schmitzer; his great-grandchildren, Kyli Schmitzer, Karsin Murphy, Jace and Mercy; and many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at Bobby V’s in Arlington TX on July 11, 2026 at 2 pm.

Gary's life was not measured by wealth or recognition, but by the love he gave, the sacrifices he made, and the family he built. He leaves behind countless memories, stories, and laughs that will be shared around dinner tables and card tables for years to come.

Though Paw Paw has played his final hand, those who loved him take comfort in knowing he is reunited with Darlene, Gary Jr., and the many loved ones who went before him. His chair may now sit empty, but his place in our hearts never will.