Coach Bob "Bull" Blanton

Blacksburg, SC - - Coach Bob "Bull" Blanton, 85, of 605 South Shelby Street, went to be home with the Lord on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at his residence.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Linda S. Blanton, and a family who respected and adored him: Lynn (Scott) Black of Blacksburg, Robbie Blanton (Angie) of Blacksburg, and Beth Blanton of Gaffney; two stepsons, Jason West of Blacksburg and Brian West of Spartanburg; five dear grandchildren: Lucas Blanton, Sylvia Blanton, Chase (Brittany) Martin, Camie Martin, and Elizabeth (Chris) Robinson; three sweet great-grandchildren: Kimrie, Kane, and Krew; numerous nieces and nephews;  and a special honorary family member, JoeBoy (Anne) Ross of Blacksburg.

Coach Blanton was preceded in death by his beloved first wife, the late Sylvia W. Blanton; his parents, Bate and Murphy Bridges Blanton; brothers Arnold, Lyle, Hubert, Leeford; and sisters, Hashell Garrick, Madge Lucente, Margie, and Shirley Blanton.

He was a graduate of Gaffney High School where he was a key member of the football team and McNeese State University where he earned a BS in Science. He was an avid football fan of Clemson University, and a supporter of the University of South Carolina.  He loved football and was an avid supporter of the Blacksburg High School (BHS) football.  He came to BHS as an assistant football coach in 1964, but earned his position as head football coach after only six months. He remained Head Football Coach of the Wildcats for 20 years, leading them to the 1976 State Football Championship. During his tenure, he was the athletic director, a science and driver's education teacher, and a staunch supporter of all BHS athletic programs. One of his most-loved honors came in 2006 when the BHS football field was named Bob Blanton Field.

Coach Blanton's family extends a special thank you to his caregivers, Robin Moore, Kesia Jones, and Joy Crownover.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, October 22 from 5:00-7:00 PM at First Baptist, Blacksburg.  A celebration of life service will be held Wednesday, October 23 at 11:00 AM in the same location. A private interment will be held at Frederick Memorial Gardens in Gaffney.

The family is at the residence.

Memorials may be made to the Blacksburg High School Football Program, ℅ Head Football Coach Josh Batchler, 201 West Ramseur Drive, SC 29702.

An online register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome.com

Blakely Funeral Home & Crematory, Gaffney, SC