William "Bill" Eugene Blanton, age 88, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 28, 2024, at his home in Shelby, NC, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 3, 1936, in Cleveland County, Bill was the son of the late Albert William Blanton and Marguerite Louise Scruggs Blanton. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elaine Jones Blanton, and siblings; Alice Blanton Hager, Jimmie Blanton, Sr., Carroll Blanton, Lavonda Blanton Powell, Kenneth Blanton, Gail Blanton Laney, and by his brother- and sister-in-law, Bob and Sue Jones.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Washington State. On August 25, 1957, he married the love of his life, Elaine Jones, with whom he shared a devoted marriage of over sixty years. Together, they were active members of Second Baptist Church in Shelby, where Bill served faithfully as a deacon and later moved to Westview Baptist Church. Known for his sense of humor and his love for golf, Bill left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In his professional life, Bill was a distinguished member of the North Carolina Resident Lenders Association where he served as president and received the David Reves Memorial Award for his service. He and Elaine owned and operated Amity Finance for over 24 years, where they built a legacy of dedication and community support until his retirement.

Bill is survived by his two daughters, Donna Rash and husband Marty and Pamela Williams and husband Michael, all of Shelby. He leaves behind grandsons Lucas and Adam Rash, granddaughters Brittany Hawkins (and husband Kyle), Andrea Williams, and Michelle Williams, and great-grandchildren Logan Rash and Avery Williams. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law Mildred Blanton and Pat Blanton, along with numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

A funeral service will be held at 3:30 PM on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at Westview Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Dr. Rick Bowling. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM in the church sanctuary. Burial will follow at Ross Grove Baptist Church.

Memorial donations may be made to Westview Baptist Church; 500 Melody Lane Shelby, NC 28150 or VIA Health Partners; P. O. Box 470408 Charlotte, NC 28247

Condolences may be shared online at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home is compassionately serving the family.