Mannis Daulton "Dee" Blanton Jr.

Mannis Daulton “Dee” Blanton Jr., age 77, of Lakeland, Georgia, passed away on Monday, June 8, 2026. He was born on September 18, 1948, to loving parents, Mannis Daulton Blanton Sr. and Martha Ann Cooper Blanton.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as a draftsman. A devoted family man, he cherished every moment spent with those he loved. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he was a faithful member of Abundant Life Church of God. Dee found great joy for the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, riding his motorcycles, and spending time on his tractor working around the farm. Dee was a very generous man to many people in which he never wanted any recognition for himself.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Jimmy Lawson Blanton.

Dee is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Gail Blanton of Lakeland, GA; daughter, Dana Boruff (Brad) of Lakeland, GA; son Tim Blanton of Valdosta, GA; grandchildren, Bryce Boruff ( Eva Marie) of Ray City and Alyssa Blanton of Lakeland, GA; brother in law, Zane Swilley of Lake Park, GA; sisters in law, Kathy Blanton of Hahira, GA, Sue Swilley of Valdosta, GA and Sylvia Nitschke of Valdosta, GA and brother in law, Gary Swilley of Canton, GA and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM, Friday, June 12, 2026, at Abundant Life Church of God, Valdosta Georgia. A visitation will be held at the Music Funeral Services, Lakeland, Georgia, Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 6:00PM – 8:00PM. A burial to follow the service at Riverview Memorial Gardens, Valdosta, GA. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www. musicfuneralservices.com. The Blanton family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Lakeland.