Franklin Lee Blankenship, age 71, of Canton, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Frank was born on December 13, 1954, at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Oakland, California, to the late Marvin and Patsy Blankenship. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy.

He will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, and brother. He was preceded in death by his wife Susan, his father Marvin, mother Patsy, and his step-mother Judy Blankenship. Frank is survived by his sons, Jeff (Jessica) Blankenship of Woodstock, Georgia, and Christopher Blankenship of Walla Walla, Washington; his cherished grandchildren, Rhodes and Avaline Blankenship; and his siblings, Sherry (Ray) Cota of Yuma, Arizona, Julie (Shawn) Victor of Lompoc, California, and Curt Kolish of Lompoc, California.

Frank’s memory will be treasured by all who knew and loved him. He leaves behind numerous friends that will truly miss him.

Frank carried his California roots with him as he traveled across the country with his service in the Navy 1974-1980 and following his career with Lockheed Martin as he moved from Lompoc to Chantilly, Virginia to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Marietta, Georgia. Frank retired from Lockheed Martin in 2006 and he and Susan built a home on Lake Hartwell in South Carolina before moving to Canton, Georgia.

He was an avid artist, using his early sign painting talents for his career in graphic design, then creating an array of paintings throughout his life that were so meticulously done that many were mistook for photographs. Several of his works were inspired by his love for cars, Route 66, and any landscape that caught his eye. His passion for design led him to create the 2004 Schwinn StingRay, an ode to his childhood bike, which became the best-selling bike in history.

Frank loved 70s rock, good food, and a themed event. He was a kind, happy man, who was known for his humor and zippy one-liners.

Per Frank’s request, there will be no service held, but he asks that his friends celebrate on their own in his honor.

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Franklin Lee Blankenship.