Harold Dean Blanton, Sr., 73, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 30, 2011.  He was the son of the late Clyde and Ocie Whisnant Blanton.  He was also preceded in death by his two brothers.   Mr. Blanton was an active member of Elizabeth Baptist Church.  He owned and operated Blanton Carpets for thirty three years.  He enjoyed golf, woodworking, sports and helping others.

Mr. Blanton is survived by his loving wife of forty-eight years, Norma Hamrick Blanton; his daughter, Kimberly Blanton Davis and husband Tim of Morganton, NC; his son, Dean Blanton and wife Heather of Hickory, NC; his sister, Ruth Sarratt of Cliffside, NC; five grandchildren; and one great grandchild.

A life celebration worship service will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, July 3, 2011 at Elizabeth Baptist Church in Shelby.  Dr. Rit Varriale and Rev. Jeff Brendle will be officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00pm on Saturday, July 2, 2011 at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory in Shelby.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The Above and Beyond Building Fund, c/o Elizabeth Baptist Church, 301 N. Post Road, Shelby, NC 28152.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Blanton.

Guest Registry is available at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com