Ben Henry Blankenship, Jr.

Ben H. "B.H." Blankenship, Jr., 85, of Altavista died Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at Autumn Care of Altavista. B.H. was born June 24, 1939 in Altavista, a son of the late Ben H. Blankenship, Sr. and Esther Howell Blankenship, both from Huddleston. He is survived by and closest to his aunt, Billie Howell of Mesa, Arizona and her sons, David Howell of Roy, Utah, Mike Howell of West Haven, Utah and Kevin Howell of Davenport, Iowa. In his early years, B.H attended Altavista High School, Prep School at Fork Union and VCU in Richmond. He worked for his father who was the owner of Altavista Hardware and later became the owner. He also moved on to own Appomattox Servistar Oil Co. B.H. also served 3 years in the Virginia National Guard. B.H. also enjoyed his time dancing and socializing with the Lynchburg Area Shag Club. In later years, he moved to Smith Mountain Lake and then Destin, Florida before returning home to Altavista in 2023. B.H loved being on the lake and ocean. He had wonderful memories of his time patrolling Smith Mountain Lake as a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He also loved sports cars, especially his most recent Mazda Miata. B.H.'s home church was First Baptist Church in Altavista, but he attended Christ Community Church in Penhook when living at the lake. He enjoyed a men's Bible group who met during the week. In Destin, Florida he became an Associate Member of Destin Methodist Church and especially enjoyed their early service on the beach and their men's Bible study group. B.H. loved being around people. He had a quick wit and delightful sense of humor. Those of us who were fortunate enough to call him friend will miss him deeply. As was inscribed on his 50 years in the Coast Guard Auxiliary plaque, "Bravo Zulu," meaning, "Well done." Family and friends will be conducting a celebration of life at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 20, 2024 at First Baptist Church, 1001 Bedford Ave., Altavista, VA 24517 by the Rev. Alden Gallimore. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that those wishing to make memorials consider First Baptist Church, 1001 Bedford Ave, Altavista, VA 24517. Finch & Finch Funeral and Cremation Service, Altavista is in charge of arrangements.

Ben Henry Blankenship, Jr.

June 24, 1939 - September 10, 2024