Gary Earl Blanton, lovingly known as “Paw Paw” to his family, passed away on June 16, 2026, at the age of 75. 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 yardwork. 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.
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