Johnny Paul Blanton, a loving husband, father, brother and friend passed away at home on December 2, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on May 7, 1948 in Nashville the middle son of three boys. He is preceded in death by Johnny Carson Blanton (father), Mary Catherine Blanton (mother), Aaron Carson Blanton (brother) and Melvin Robert Blanton (brother).
Johnny is survived by his beloved high school sweetheart and wife of 56 years, Vicki Blanton; children, Bonnie Lynn Blanton (Steven), Elizabeth Ann Blanton (Ansel) and Robert Paul Blanton; and his sister, Clara Anita Blanton Priest (John). Also surviving are sisters-in-law, Brenda Joyce Taylor Phillips, and Sharon Lee Taylor Lockridge (Bill); brother-in-law, Jeffrey Wayne Taylor (Janet); his best friend and fellow Veteran, James Mullican; and his loyal golden retriever, Murphy.
He graduated from Franklin High School in 1967, where he played football, boxed Golden Gloves, held the lead role in Little Abner and was loved by everyone. Johnny always had a charismatic personality, he never met a stranger and was hilariously funny. His wit and humor could make you laugh until you cried! The soft and tender side came out with animals. They seemed to be drawn to him almost as if they were talking to each other. Johnny also had an aptitude for mechanical things and could fix anything. He loved all genres of music and had a musical ear with the ability to play piano, accordion, banjo and fiddle to name a few.
Shortly after graduation he married the love of his life, Vicki, and joined the Armed Forces. He was deployed to Vietnam and used his mechanical talents as a helicopter mechanic throughout his military career. During his service in both Vietnam and Korea, he developed a love of the Huey helicopter and the comradery of his fellow soldiers. After returning home to Franklin, Tennessee, he continued his military service with the Tennessee Army National Guard. He retired after forty years of service in 2008 as an E7 Sergeant First Class. He was incredibly proud of his country and the opportunity he had to serve.
Johnny cherished his time with family more than anything. Family Christmas’ were the highlight of the year. He also enjoyed camping in his RV, fishing on the Harpeth River and taking one of his storied trips to Talladega Motor Speedway. Johnny also loved his church family at Kingston Springs Church of Christ and they loved and supported him till the end.
A celebration of life will be held at the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery Chapel at 7931 McCrory Lane, Nashville, TN, with the date to be determined.
6 Responses
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. A personality like no other. He could meet a stranger and have them laughing and smiling in a minute. He always took the lead when grammar school classes would visit our flight facility. The children had a ball hearing his stories. He and I agreed we had the most famous adventure together. Just the two of us going to Groton CT to inspect a Cobra helicopter and fly it home. He entertained my New England family with his Southern charm, we flew down the eastern sea coast, down the Hudson River valley to the Statue of Liberty, and then along the Potomac River by all the monuments in Washington DC. Having him for a friend was such a pleasure.
So sorry to hear about John’s passing. Prayers for John and all the family. He was a person who never met a stranger. All of us who had the honor of serving with him will miss his big laugh and his wide smile. RIP John.
we are so sorry for the loss of your brother., and son. God bless you all.
He was not only a brother, father, uncle and brother in law , he was a buddy to many. He will definitely be missed by all who knew him, especially me.
I’m so thankful God had Johnny cross my path. He was was a unique man, and could certainly perk up a dull day! So quick witted with such good sense of humor. I watched him show his true heart, always helping others with compassion. Such a good Christian man, and so loved by those who crossed his path. He loved his family deeply, and was grateful for everything. . He will be truly missed. Go rest, Johnny!
so sorry to hear of John’s passing. he was a great guy. we are glad we got to know him. I remember many of his stories and how funny he was. Vicki our hearts and prayers go out to you at this sad time.