Ernest Charles Blankenship

Ernest Charles Blankenship passed away suddenly on April 24, 2020 in Maryville, Tennessee. Born October 22, 1935. He was graduated in 1954 from Maryville High School, then served in the US Navy for 4 years and was most proud of his service to his country serving on the staff of the Commander Seventh Fleet earning the China Service Medal. In 1962 graduated from the University of Tennessee, began working at Ford Motor Company in Michigan; returned to Nashville in 1968 and retired from the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation. In 2002 returned to Maryville and served on the Little River Watershed Association, the historic Magnolia Cemetery Board, the Blount County Planning Commission, and the Foothills Land Conservancy. As a lover of nature, he enjoyed gardening, the Smoky Mountains and feeding and identifying numerous birds that came visit. Also enjoyed his weekly workouts with friends. His love to family and friends is what Ernie would want everyone to know. Ernie was a member of First United Methodist Church of Maryville. He was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Evelyn Blankenship of Maryville. Survived by his wife Patricia Davis Blankenship of Maryville; daughter Nancy (Tim) Pride and granddaughter Katherine Pride of Panama City Beach, Florida; stepchildren Geoff (Michelle) King of Maryville and Tara (Dewayne) Holloway of Louisville, Tennessee; step grandchildren Tanner Harrison, Jace and Jaron King all of Maryville; brother Tommy (Jane) Blankenship, John (Kay) Blankenship and sister Becky Darrell all of Maryville, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Food for Children’s Backpack program at Maryville First United Methodist Church (804 Montvale Station Road). A private graveside service will be led by Reverend Catherine Nance. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a future date. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ernest Charles Blankenship please visit our Sympathy Store.