James Morrison Blanton, age 99, of Paintsville, KY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening, December 16, 2025, at Mountain Manor of Paintsville.

He was born on May 6, 1926, in Johnson County, KY, to the late Walter and Sally Pritchard Blanton. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Vivian Lois O'Brian Blanton; one brother, Howard Paul Blanton; four sisters, Dixie Blanton, Ollie Conley, Mable Blanton, Mona Rooker; and one granddaughter, Gabriella Morgan (Gabby) Blanton.

Survivors include two daughters, Elizabeth Lynn Blanton of Daytona Beach, FL, Brenda Blanton (Jack) Jarrell of Williamsport, KY; two sons, Howard Paul (Shannon) Blanton of Lancaster, KY, James M. (Lesley) Blanton II of Mocksville, NC; one sister, Sandra Kraft of Chicago, IL; seven grandchildren, Mike Jarrell, Jacquie Collins, Jeff Robert Brown, Ashley Blanton, Samantha Blanton, Johnathan Blanton, Michaela Blanton; along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Graveside Services are scheduled for 11 A.M. Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the Highland Memorial Park Cemetery in Staffordsville. Burial will follow. Friends may visit at the Jones-Preston Funeral Home on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 5 P.M. until 8 P.M.

Jones-Preston Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Jones-Preston Funeral Home is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with all final arrangements for Mr. James Morrison Blanton.