Richard Alvin Blanton Jr.

Born on December 26, 1963 to the late Carolyn Francis Blanton and Richard Alvin Blanton Sr.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Gloria Irene Blanton; daughters, Maria José Ventura, Samantha Sanchez, Tabitha Logan Sanchez-Blanton, and Bailey & Doyle; sister, Sandra Marie Blanton; grandchildren, Sebastian Gabriel Ventura, Sabrina Danielle Ventura, Shiloh Asher Ventura, Benjamin Thomas Connelly, Charlotte Jayne Connelly, Tai Carlos Shields, and Sophia Esther Ventura; nieces, Katee Hiatt and Harlee Hiatt; nephew, Thorn Hiatt.

At his essence, Richard lived his life from a place of duty, honor, devotion, and service to his family and Country. He had the innate ability to offer healing to those closest to him through laughter, guidance, and acceptance; nurturing the body and soul of those he loved, with the unwavering strength of a Soldier, until he took his final "Stand Down".

For final arrangements, you will be contacted by the family - if you wish to offer condolences, you may do so online at www.kirkseyfh.com

Kirksey Funeral Home in Morganton, North Carolina is honored to serve the family.