Obituary: Fern Blanton

Submitted by Hughes Taylor Funeral Home

Fern Blanton, age 79, of Salem passed away Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Ascension St. Vincent Salem Hospital. Born December 9, 1945 in Harlan, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Oscar Howard and Parley (Taylor) Howard.

Fern is survived by her husband, Johnny Blanton; 3 children: David Lemarr, Gregory Blanton, and Kristi Blanton; 1 brother: Bill Howard; 3 sisters: Ruby, Bobbi, and Deborah; and 3 grandchildren: Devan Boutelle, Kaylie Fourman, and Karlee Hefley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Parley Howard; daughter, Kathy Lemarr; 4 brothers; and 2 sisters.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Hughes-Taylor Funeral Home-Salem Chapel with Troy Merry officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home. Burial to follow in Winslow Cemetery.