Mercer Jefferson Blankenship, Jr., 78, died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, November 5, 2013.
He was born in Charlotte, NC to the late Mercer Jefferson Blankenship, Sr. and Marjorie Wood Blankenship. He graduated from Davidson College in 1957. He taught English at Ramesuer High School before moving to New York City in the late 1950s. In 1962 he graduated from UNC Law School and went to work in the Domestic Court of Mecklenburg County. He went into private practice soon after and retired after 30 years in 1996. That year he walked the Appalachian Trail and finished in 6 months and five days. He was an avid runner for most of his life until becoming ill in 2006.
He loved the outdoors and his cabin on Roan Mountain, where he spent a great deal of time in the last several years. He was a literature graduate who loved poetry and classical music. He played the cornet and loved to ride his bike until his illness.
He was cared for in his home by his daughter, Lisa, 136 Colony Lane, Arden, NC 28704, and friend Michael Payne. He is also survived by his two sons, Scott of Canton, N.Y. and Gil of New Orleans, La.
He was greatly loved by his family and will be sadly missed. We would like to extend our thanks to Rev. Julie Merritt Lee and the congregation of Providence Baptist Church for their ongoing support and kindness during our father’s illness.
A memorial service will be held at a later date and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family and a memorial register is available at www.grocefuneralhome.com.