Blankenship, Robert (Bob) Boyd, age 83, of Knoxville, went home to be with the Lord Sunday, June 26, 2011. Bob was an active member of Gospel Baptist Church. He was a Sergeant in U.S. Marine Veteran of WWII and Korean War and lifetime member of D.A.V. Chapter 24. Bob was preceded in death by parents; Earl R. and Mary (Watts) Blankenship. Stepson; James Nichols. He is survived by wife of 37 years, Melba Blankenship, five children, fourteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren , one great-great granddaughter, several nieces, nephews, brother; Earl (Butch) and wife Ursella Blankenship, sister-in-law; Jerald Blankenship and friends of Gospel Baptist Church. Family will receive friends Monday, June 27, 2011 from 6-8 PM at Berry Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 8:00PM with Rev. I.A. Sparks officiating. Family and friends will meet at Tennessee Veterans Cemetery Tuesday, June 28, 2011 for a 11:30 interment with Military Honors. Condolences may be offered at www.berryfuneralhome.com.
