Ricky Blankenship, born in Alabama on Aug. 26, 1958, the son of Harold Dean and Julia Blankenship, passed away Friday, Oct. 12, 2007, at his home with his family by his side, at the age of 49. He was a resident of Columbiana. At the age of 18, he started his career as a truck driver. He was a devoted family man and loved music.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Monday at Charter Funeral Home in Calera, with chaplain David Morris officiating. The family received friends two hours prior to his services.

He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Nancy; daughter, Donda Blankenship Meader; son, John Michael Blankenship and daughter-in-law, April; brother, James Michael Blankenship; five-year-old grandson, Hunter Meader, “Paw Paw’s little buddy.” Arrangements were under the direction of Charter in Calera