Fred Blankenship

Asheville - Fred David Blankenship, 72, of Asheville, passed away Friday, March 28, 2014 at Emerald Ridge Rehab and Care Center. A lifelong resident of Buncombe County, Mr. Blankenship retired from the City of Asheville as a Firefighter following 19 years of service. He was passionate about hunting and fishing, and loved baseball, bluegrass and country music. Mr. Blankenship was the son of the late William and Marion McCurry Blankenship. He was also preceded in death by his sisters: Helen Ayers and Doris Burbage; and brothers: Gary, Charles, and George Blankenship. Surviving are his wife of 42 years, Nancy Price Blankenship; son, Chad Blankenship; daughter, Sharmon Franklin and husband Mark; step-daughter, Pamela Lease and husband Rob; step-son, Kenny Palmer; grandchildren: Ethan Franklin and April Franklin; step-grandchildren: Paul and Alex Royalty, and Langley and Ben Lease; one great-grandchild; sisters: Patty Harris and husband Mike and Donna Smith and husband Randy; and several nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held at 6:00 PM Sunday in the chapel of Anders-Rice Funeral Home, with the Rev. Steve Oxner officiating. The family will receive friends following the services at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the Asheville Firefighters Association, 18 Regent Park Blvd, Suite G, Asheville, NC 28806.