Theodore J. Blankenship

Theodore J. Blankenship, 90, of Salem, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025.

He was born on March 17, 1935, son of the late Crockett Thomas and Minnie Jane Stuart Blankenship.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his friend and companion, Sue Sutherlin, and his grandson, Tony Thompson.

Family remaining to cherish his memory includes his siblings, Mary J. Melton; his children, Shirley Thompson (Billy), William Blankenship, Ted Blankenship (Donna), and Dianna Stanley; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Theodore was a retired employee of the City of Salem, faithfully serving 30 plus years of service to the community.

The family will welcome friends on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. in the chapel of John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, located in Salem. Funeral services to honor his life will begin directly at 11 a.m., following visitation. Pastor Brian Gordon will officiate. Interment will follow at Sunset cemetery in Christiansburg.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Theodore’s memory to the Good Samaritan Hospice House, 4751 Cove Rd, Roanoke, VA 24017.

Online condolences may be expressed to the Blankenship family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.

***Due to the inclement weather, the interment for Mr. Blankenship at Sunset cemetery will be postponed until Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 2 p.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.***