Mr. Okey Blankenship, age 73 of Jasper, passed away on Monday evening, October 17, 2011 at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta.Funeral Services were held at 10AM on Thursday, October 20, 2011 at the Chapel of Cagle Funeral Home with Reverend Ben Mock officiating. Interment followed at 12PM at Georgia National Cemetery in Cherokee County with Local Chapter #47 DAV in charge of Military Graveside Rites. Serving as Pallbearers were: Earl and Nicholas Windsor, Nicholas Chapman and Eddie, Bud and Tony Blankenship.

Survivors include his Sons: Bruce Blankenship of Xenia, OH and David Blankenship of Auburndale, FL; Daughters: Wadielee Vance of Wichita, KS and Donna McLemore of Auburndale, FL; 13 Grandchildren; 2 Great-Grandchildren; Sisters: Betty Davis of Elgin, IL and Tammy Colman of Panther, WV; Brothers: Herbert and Richard Blankenship, both of Jasper and William (Bud) Blankenship of Ball Ground. Mr. Blankenship was preceded in death by his Wife: Patsy Blankenship, who passed away on September 24, 2011, his Parents: Mrs. Wadie (Justice) Blankenship and Mr. Mose Blankenship and Brothers: Dencil, Eddie, Larry, Jackie and Freddie Blankenship.

Mr. Blankenship had an extensive military career including tours in Korea, Vietnam and Indochina. He was awarded several ribbons and medals, including two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars and the Distinguished Service Award.

The Family requests that in lieu of flowers, Memorials be made to the VA Association.

Cagle Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.