James M. “Tootie” Blankenship, 53, of Parrish, died Tuesday, March 5, 2013, at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 11, 2013, at Zion Church of Christ in Parrish with burial in the adjoining cemetery. Zac Langley will officiate. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the church.

On the Sunday before his death, Tootie rededicated his life to the Lord after a hard life. He felt his life had found new meaning. He loved his grandchildren and was an avid Alabama football fan. He enjoyed spending his time reading and enjoying life and will be greatly missed.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Richard F. and Doris Blankenship and grandson, Derek Sanders, Jr.

Survivors include his daughters, Kristy Gail Shanklin of Ensley, Crimson Leigh Morrow of Ensley and Bella Blankenship; brother, Richard Alan Blankenship and his wife, Jennifer of Parrish; grandchildren, Christian Deanthony Shanklin, De’Ondre Ja’Shon Shanklin, Alyssa Ra’Nea Shanklin, and Angel Lea Morrow, all of Parrish; wife, Donna Faye Blankenship of Parrish; and nephew, Jarrett Blankenship of Parrish; niece, Allison Blankenship of Parrish; and other relatives and friends.

Bell Funeral Home, Sumiton; 205-648-6611