John Blanton "Slick", 93 of Shelby, NC passed away July 30, 2023 at White Oak Manor of Shelby. John was born to the late Edward Pinkney and Bettsie Martin Blanton in Cherokee County, SC. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by an infant son, John Richard Blanton and daughter, Susan Marie Coyle. He is also preceded in death by two son-in-laws, Ray Cline and Sammy Coyle.

John proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for two years on the front lines in combat. Later in life, John went on to have a dedicated career for thirty nine years as a "Lead Man" at FMC Lithium and was known as one of the founding employees. He thoroughly enjoyed his career and the lifelong relationships and connections he made along the way.

John is survived by his loving wife of seventy years, Thelma Goforth Blanton and children, Jerry Blanton (Rosalyn), Debra Hoppes, Sandra Cline, Steven "Stevie" Blanton and John Henry Coyle (Lindsey). He also leaves behind four grandchildren and eight great grandchildren whom he loved and cherished very much.

A funeral service for John will be held 2:00 PM Thursday, August 3, 2023 at the chapel of Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory with Rev. Richard Stroup officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home an hour before the service. Burial will take place at Clingman Memorial Gardens in Blacksburg, SC.

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

Online condolences may be made at cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com