Thursday, March 26, 2026 11:09 am

Mr. Farchel Leggette Blanton, 98, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026 at home surrounded by family.

A native of Cleveland County, he was the son of the late Dwight and Lucile Blanton and was also preceded in death by his son Farchel "Randy" Blanton. He dedicated his life to his career with the Cleveland County Department of Corrections where he retired after 30 years as a custodian officer. He was a veteran of the United States Army and served a tour in Japan during World War II. He was a member of Fairview Masonic Lodge No. 339 and was an avid walker who enjoyed spending time outside at Kings Mountain National Military Park, Crowders Mountain State Park, and the Gateway Trails. Above all, he cherished his family and spending time with his grandchildren.

Mr. Blanton is survived by his wife of 75 years, Juanita G. Blanton, his daughter Leigh Ann Long and husband Bryan, his grandchildren Ian Blanton, Ethan Blanton, and Kristen Hersek (Joe), and his great-grandson Brylan Krew Hersek.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Mountain Rest Cemetery with Rev. Brad Ellis, Kristen Hersek, and Bryan K. Long officiating

VISITATION: The family will receive visitors at the home throughout the week.

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA