Mr. Joseph "Joe" Ryan Blanton's Obituary
A Memorial Service for Mr. Joe Ryan Blanton, 22, of Phenix City, will be held at Fort Church Eastern Heights in Columbus, Georgia, on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Pastor Matt Stephens will officiate.
Joseph Ryan Blanton, affectionately known as Joe to his friends and family, was a beacon of light and love to all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him. Born on January 16, 2003, in Columbus, GA, Joe's infectious energy and zest for life began to shape the world around him from a very young age. He embraced the world with open arms until his passing on January 17, 2025.
Joe's professional life was a testament to his charismatic personality and innate ability to connect with people. As a sales director for True Elite Marketing Company, he was much more than a colleague; he was a cherished friend and an integral part of a work family that revered him for his exceptional talent. Joe was known for being the man who “could sell ice to a polar bear,” a phrase that encapsulated his remarkable persuasive skills and his knack for turning every challenge into a triumph.
From the tender age of three, Joe's passion for baseball was evident. He was a natural on the field, earning the nickname Joe Kimbrel after his favorite baseball player, Craig Kimbrel, because of his impressive pitching style. His father and hero, Ryan, fueled the love for the game with many hours spent on the baseball field together. Joe also enjoyed playing golf with his friend, Ian Chapman, and his uncle, Shawn Davis. A true Georgia boy at heart, Joe's devotion to the Georgia Bulldogs was unwavering, and he never missed a chance to cheer them on when it was Game Day.
He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as spending quality time with his loved ones. His mom, Debbie, cherished Blake Shelton's song "The Baby," as it resonated with her sentiment that she didn’t care if he was 80 years old, he would forever be her baby. Joe's protective nature shone brightly when it came to his sister, Chelsey, always having her back, and his playful spirit was a source of endless amusement for his niece, Elizabeth, whom he loved to aggravate any chance he got. He shared a special and playful bond with his grandmother, affectionately known as "Mee Mee,” She was "his Fossil" and he was her "Jr. Fossil."
To others, Joe was a manly man, but to his fiancée, Akili, he was a gentle giant, a big softie with a heart of gold. His capacity to love knew no bounds, and his two babies, Aurora and Josette, were his whole world. They were heaven-sent in a time when God knew he needed them.
Tragically, Joe left us the day after his birthday and will remain forever 22 in the hearts of those who loved him. Joe's story is a reminder that the essence of a person lies not in the length of their time on earth but in the depth of their impact on others. His spirit is timeless and his legacy eternal. As we celebrate the life of Joseph Ryan Blanton, let us let us be loving in our actions, selfless in our intentions, and thoughtful in our words. Let us pitch our best game in the face of life's challenges, and let us always remember that, like Joe, we have the power to touch lives and inspire greatness.
Joe's spirit will continue to guide us, his memory a beacon of hope and love that will never fade. Let us honor him by living fully, loving deeply, and embracing every moment with the same zest and warmth that he did. #forever22
Joe is survived by his daughters, Aurora Lynn Blanton, Josette Reign Blanton; fiance, Akili Sheron Franklin; mother, Debra "Debbie" Denise Davis; father, Ryan Keith Blanton; sister, Chelsey Nichole Blanton; niece, Elizabeth Tatum; grandmother, Tammy Wentz; uncles, Ronnie (Judy) Blanton, Shawn (Charmaine) Davis; and numerous extended aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his grandma, Theresa Grewe (Ammie); grandfathers, Kenneth Allen (Gran Gran), Billy Ray Davis (Paw Paw Bill); great-grandparents, Glenda (Nanny) & John Wayne Newsome "Paw Paw Wayne).
Langley Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Joseph Ryan Blanton.
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