NORTON, VA.                                          NOVEMBER 16, 2024

Cathy Ann Blanton, 70, peacefully entered the next phase of her journey on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at home with her loving son holding her hand.

Cathy was born to Pauline and Lee Perry, the fourth of eight siblings.

Cathy was preceded in death by her husband, the love of her life, Jack R. Blanton, along with her parents, siblings Roger and Leroy, and longtime companion Leon Barnette. She is survived by her only son, Jeff Blanton, along with sisters Judy Greene, Elita Higginson, and Sherry Sowards, and brothers Allen Perry and Eddie Perry.

Although never a teacher by trade, Cathy was a leading, loving presence, both inside of her family and beyond. Cathy had strong convictions and offered support and inspiration to not only her son, but to many family and friends along the way. Her quiet wisdom, earned through untold hours of contemplation and life experiences, served as an inspiration to all who knew her, and her guidance is still helping others learn to be confident enough to stand up for what is right, whether on their own behalves or on behalf of others who need a voice. Cathy never hesitated to speak her mind and take a stand when someone needed to do so - often quite directly, without mincing words.

In raising her son, Cathy was strict about learning, responsibility, and doing what is right. However, she was not so strict as to stifle - some lessons must be learned on one's own, and Jeff was given that freedom and autonomy to find his own way, always under her wise and watchful eye. If Jeff had a question she couldn't answer, the two would pack up and head to the library, where the staff was plenty accustomed to them leaving with stacks of books. Cathy and Jack gave Jeff an idyllic childhood, and Cathy offered nurturing care and teaching to many children within her family. She later offered the same respectful and devoted care to elderly patients she sat with in their final days.

Cathy loved music and movies, from the scariest horror films to the sweetest Pixar and Studio Ghibli animation, from Michael Jackson and Bob Seger to The Flaming Lips. She possessed a quick, dry wit, cracking wry jokes with impeccable timing. She was a gifted cook, feeding scores of family and friends with her effortless gravies, delicious candies, and ever-popular "snitchels."

Whether being the best mother on the planet, keeping a house beyond spotless, working as a waitress at the diner where she met her husband Jack, or spending long hours at Buster Brown and KMart to support herself and her son after Jack's passing, Cathy was an incredibly hard worker. She never lost sight of her strong morals and served as the glue that held her large family together.

A private celebration of Cathy's life will be held at the home. In lieu of flowers or food, please make a donation in Cathy's honor to an organization that helps people in their hour of most need to honor her tirelessly giving spirit and teachings that will last well past her brief time on this earth.

Please visit www.sturgillfuneral.com to leave online condolences for the family.

Sturgill Funeral Home 1621 Norton Road SW Wise, VA 24293 is in charge of arrangements.